Football
PA Sport 9y

Arsenal can push Chelsea for Premier League title next year - Wilshere

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is confident the Gunners can overthrow Premier League champions Chelsea next season.

Wilshere came off the bench after 77 minutes against Villa, and was involved in the goal for Olivier Giroud in stoppage time, as the Gunners recorded the biggest FA Cup final winning margin, 4-0, in more than 20 years on Saturday.

Arsenal ended the Premier League season some 12 points behind Chelsea, four from Manchester City, but ahead of Manchester United.

Wilshere believes Arsene Wenger's squad can continue their improvement through 2015-2016.

"We have made a big step mentally," said Wilshere after Saturday's victory at Wembley.

"I remember in previous years going to big games, Man United, City, Chelsea, thinking 'have we really got a chance today?' But this year, from the first big game, Man City at home, we did well and then we won at their place.

"Even United away we got a point. That is a big step that we needed to do, so next year we feel like we are in a better position."

Wilshere added: "The big one for us is the Premier League.

"We have progressed this year, have finished third and got automatic Champions League qualification.

"Next year we feel that can really push Chelsea, City and United for the title."

Wilshere accepts "competition is ferocious'' within the Gunners squad, but would have it no other way.

He added: "When I first started at Arsenal there was players like Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri and Alex Song and people were saying I wouldn't play, that I might have to go out on loan again to get some game time, but I am there to accept the competition and fight for my place."

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