Former Chelsea star Tony Cascerino fears Arsenal will need a helping hand from his old side if they are to pip Manchester City to the Premier League title.

The Gunners remain in a commanding position given they hold a nine-point lead, albeit having played a game more, but successive cup defeats has put an entirely different complexion on the run-in.

Mikel Arteta had hoped that the Carabao Cup final would provide an opportunity to end a six-year silverware trophy doubts but a 2-0 loss has instead seen fresh doubts creep in and provided City with fresh impetus.

Pep Guardiola’s side turn in an ominous display against Liverpool on Saturday, romping to a 4-0 win, and would have taken fresh belief from the way in which a disjointed Arsenal team saw their FA Cup hopes go up in smoke against Southampton.

Arsenal are back in Champions League action in midweek against Sporting Lisbon before they resume their Premier League campaign against Bournemouth at home on Saturday lunchtime.

A win there would see them extend their lead, temporarily at least to 12 points, before City face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge 24 hours later.

With Arsenal’s trip to the...