LONDON, August 9: Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez will miss their first two Premier League games of the season after picking up an abdominal strain in training, manager Arsene Wenger said on Wednesday.

Arsenal's season will end as a "big disappointment" if they fail to finish in the Premier League top-four and secure Champions League qualification, goalkeeper Petr Cech has said.

Chelsea continued their seemingly irresistible surge towards regaining the Premier League title as a late Gary Cahill goal saw them snatch a 2-1 win at Stoke City on Saturday to move a provisional 13 points clear at the top.

Arsenal's clash against London rivals Chelsea is the north London side's last chance to stop the Premier League leaders from running away with the title, former France winger Robert Pires has said.

Arsene Wenger's recent record at Arsenal should not undermine the long-serving manager's ability to help his players develop and fulfil their potential, defender Laurent Koscielny has said.

Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin will be out for up to four weeks after injuring his hamstring during the Gunners' 3-3 Premier League draw at Bournemouth on Tuesday.

LONDON, Sept 10: Arsenal relied on Santi Cazorla's stoppage-time penalty to secure a 2-1 victory over Southampton on Saturday after another unconvincing display from the London club as it chases a first Premier League title since 2004.