Jack Wilshere says Arsenal must be more ruthless if they are to challenge
Jack Wilshere admits Arsenal need to improve in front of goal if they are to maintain a title challenge this season.
Arsene Wenger's side are nine points off league leaders Chelsea following their 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, with Wilshere's heavy touch denying him a clear sight of goal on a day of few opportunities for the Gunners.
"At times we controlled the game and that is the difference, at this level when you are playing against a top-class team, when you are on top you have to really make it count," said the England midfielder.
"We created a few half chances, but we never really made it count.
"You didn't really see Cesc Fabregas or Diego Costa all game and then, all of a sudden, a 50-yard ball from Cesc put it on Costa's foot and it is a great finish, and the game is over.
"We have played well, but at this level, against the top three in this league, when you are on top you need to make the opportunities count and if you don't, then you are going to get punished."
Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny sees no reason why Arsenal cannot regroup and challenge again when domestic action resumes against Hull on October 18.
"We have had a tough run so far, but I would like to think that our start has been solid, not as good as we expected from ourselves, but I believe that, after the international break, we can push on and get more points," he said.