Paul Merson admits Arsenal have had a ‘nightmare’ by only drawing against Fulham – and insists it’s ‘advantage Liverpool’ as he and Jamie Redknapp reflect on their huge title race blow

Paul Merson criticized Arsenal after his former side dropped points in the Premier League title race with a 1-1 draw against Fulham.

Raul Jimenez gave Fulham the lead and although Arsenal equalized through William Saliba, the Gunners dropped points, with Bukayo Saka’s late effort ruled out.

Arsenal are six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand after their match against rivals Everton on Saturday was postponed due to Storm Darragh.

Merson told Sky Sports: “It’s not a good point, two points have been lost. They were just scoring a small point and had a nightmare there at the end with that disallowed goal. They had to win that football game. Advantage Liverpool.’

It has been an excellent weekend for Liverpool, with Manchester City being held to a 2-2 draw by Crystal Palace.

Jamie Redknapp noted how Liverpool have managed to improve their situation without even playing.

Redknapp said: ‘What a weekend for Liverpool, with Arsenal dropping points and Man City dropping points and they’ve put themselves in an even better position.

‘Arne Slot would have watched those last minutes with heart and soul with the biggest VAR decision of the season so far. Martinelli just had to keep himself onside.

‘You have to congratulate Fulham for their efforts. Lukic and Berge were brilliant, they didn’t stop and made things so difficult for Arsenal. Antonee Robinson did so well against Saka at times and if you stop that flow of Saka and Odegaard you can stop Arsenal.”

Arsenal had gone into the match on the back of three consecutive wins in the Premier League.

However, Mikel Arteta’s side were far from their best against Fulham as they lacked their usual flair.

City have struggled for consistency of late and are eight points behind Liverpool after playing a game more.