Wenger bullish as Arsenal look to close in on Chelsea

Arsenal can move up to second in the Premier League if they beat Bolton this evening, weather permitting, as Arsene Wenger hunts his first silverware for five years.

The Gunners boss is bullish about his side's chances of ending their recent trophyless run with the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup all still in their sights.

Arsenal's season appeared to be in ruins after they were soundly beaten by Chelsea at the Emirates in November, but since then they have rediscovered their form, if not the panache of their early season performances, and are some people's favourites for the league title.

And Wenger believes that the title race does not begin in earnest until the new year and that his side are well and truly part of it.

"One month ago, we were far from the top but we have created momentum and we have got to keep it going," he said.

"It is a good opportunity to come back close to Chelsea and we want to make it more interesting for everybody. The race starts after Christmas. I don't think nerves play a big part in December but they play a big part in March and April."

And despite Arsenal's ability to uncover young talent much of the club's recovery has been down to an old stager. Wenger has singled out his former skipper, the veteran William Gallas, for praise. The French defender's time at Arsenal seemed to be up last season when he was stripped of the captaincy after he criticised his team mates, his performances dropped off and he staged a bizarre sit-down protest after a draw with Birmingham.

However Gallas has rediscovered his form to such an extent and now Wenger has indicated he could break his policy of not offering over-30s anything more than a one-year contract by signing the 32-year-old on a long term deal.

"William has been amazing the whole season," said Wenger. "He does what you dream of as a manager – he does not talk and plays well."

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