Former England international Alan Shearer believes that Arsenal can be serious Premier League title contenders if they remain at the top of the standings after the festive schedule.

Arsene Wenger's men, who were generally tipped to fight for fourth place before the start of the season, are currently at the top of the table, five points clear of Liverpool after 15 games.

"I know us pundits are getting a bit of stick for not backing them for the title, but they seem to be coming up with the right answers every weekend," Shearer told talkSPORT.

"Like it is for every club, this period over Christmas is critical and if they are still sat top in January then one or two people, including myself, might have to change opinion."

The Gunners will take on Napoli this evening in Italy for their final Champions League group game.