It’s incredibly difficult to come out of a draw from such a promising position positively. And yet, with the season the Gunners are having and the four-point gap, for now, that exists between themselves and Manchester City it is perhaps key to provide some context and listen to the encouragement from those within the club.
The league remains in the Gunners' hands and a win against Manchester City, no matter what they do with their game in hand, would restore a sizeable buffer with few games to go. However, there remains a greater focus before then, namely Southampton.
Before the Gunners hosted Man City in the league at the Emirates Stadium they failed to win the two preceding games, drawing with Brentford after a defeat to Everton. Losing Thomas Partey in the build-up only made things worse and the lack of momentum perhaps showed in an error-strewn display.
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Having momentum this time around is absolutely vital and whilst the draws with Liverpool and now West Ham United have somewhat stunted what has nonetheless turned into a nine-game unbeaten run, the match on Friday provides a great chance to put the pressure on. The players certainly see it that way.
Speaking with football.london after the game, Granit Xhaka admitted that these were two difficult games in the context of a Premier League season. However, the Switzerland international made the promise to supporters that we would see a response.
"I think you play away to Liverpool and away today in two very difficult games, in my opinion. We knew that," he told football.london.
"But let’s refresh everything now. Let’s analyse the game today and after we keep going from tomorrow.
"I am sure that you guys, but as well from our side, will see a reaction on Friday."
Man City have FA Cup duties meaning they’ll have two games in hand on the Gunners. In fact, their next Premier League game is against Arsenal where they’ll have one day less recovery.
However, this could all be meaningless if the Gunners are unable to get maximum points against Southampton. Xhaka’s words will stand as a stern statement of intent that this small blip will not have curtailed their title hopes.
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