Almunia admits: We thought our season was over in November

Manuel Almunia has spoken of his surprise at Arsenal’s position at this late stage in the season.

The Gunners find themselves as genuine contenders to win their first league title since 2004, despite some painful defeats to Manchester United and Chelsea this season.

The Arsenal goalkeeper admits he and his team-mates thought they were out of the title race after losing 3-0 at home to Chelsea in November.

After Carlo Ancelotti’s side took three points at the Emirates, Arsène Wenger and Arsenal found themselves eight points behind their London rivals, but Almunia says his manager’s belief has helped the team claw back the points.

He said: “After Chelsea we felt not to have many chances to win anything.

“It was difficult because we were thinking that coming back to the top of the table would be really hard.

“We were quiet in the dressing room. Our heads were down. What are you going to say? It is better to wait until the next day.”

The Spaniard praised Wenger for keeping calm and giving his players confidence, even when they were not playing at their best.

He added: “The next day we had a meeting with the boss in a special room at the training ground. He gave us all belief and we saw the boss like a father.

“We thought he was going to be very angry. But, no, he kept his calm and spoke well. He always says he still has belief in us, even when we lose.

“Now we are looking at Chelsea and United just waiting for them to drop (points). We have a hunger to catch them up and I think we are in a good position.”

Arsenal will be hoping to go top of the table today when West Ham visit the Emirates.