'There may just be a little more fluctuation this season'
- Published
An Arsenal-related question was put to BBC chief football writer Phil McNulty in Monday's Q&A.
Dan asked: Phil, how much of a blow do you think Arsenal's loss to Bournemouth will be for them in the title race? Four points off the top already isn't exactly a good place to be, especially losing Saliba for a few games as well. I'm of the opinion that it's still early days and Manchester City and Liverpool are bound to drop points along the way.
Phil: Hi, Dan. A blow, of course, and we know how tight the margins are in the Premier League title race these days, but we are still very early on in the season and I agree with you, there may just be a little more fluctuation this season.
William Saliba’s suspension for the Liverpool game is a real blow but Arsenal are at Emirates Stadium, still have plenty of quality, and this presents a great chance to bounce right back against a team that is clearly going to be one of their main title rivals.
Read more of the Q&A with Phil and the rest of the day's football news