When Lucas Perez started for Arsenal in their vital FA Cup clash at non-league Sutton United last night, his future was being openly debated by fans both in the stands at Gander Green Lane and across social media.

Quotes attributed to the Spaniard’s agent, Rodrigo Fernandez Lovelle, had been swirling for hours in which he allegedly told CalcioMercatoWeb that his client “will leave” the Gunners this summer after a frustrating season in north London, but these had later been branded fake by the Independent’s Ed Malyon…

Who knows what the truth is. Perez’s agent could indeed have been misquoted, CMW’s claims could be wide of the mark or Lovelle man himself might be backtracking in a bid to keep the striker in Arsene Wenger’s plans for the remainder of 2016/17, and thus in the shop window.

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However, one thing we do know is that Perez stepped up against Sutton, helping his side to a win they really needed after a tough week. Granted, the Amber and Chocolates are not exactly the toughest of opposition, but the 28-year-old’s vital opening goal eased nerves and helped his side to a 2-0 win that will at least keep the #WengerOut brigade quiet for a few days.

As we mentioned, Perez netted the opening goal, which was one of three shots he took at goal, while he also completed three dribbles on Sutton’s much talked about 3G pitch. The former Deportivo La Coruna ace also made 69% of his 29 passes stick, one of which was a key pass, which is no mean feat given his advanced position and the deep nature of the home team’s backline.

Whatever the story with his agent’s quotes, Perez needed to step up vs. Sutton, and he did just that.

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Once again, it looks like another season of disappointment for Arsenal as Arsene Wenger’s men look destined for yet another fourth-placed finish at best.

Having started the campaign strongly, as they so often do, the Gunners have once again slipped into the realms of mediocrity and find themselves again competing for merely the carrot of European football rather than the Premier League title.

Currently sat level on points with fierce rivals Tottenham, the Gunners’ trail Manchester City by two points and leaders Chelsea by an unassailable ten. Liverpool and Manchester United are also hot on their tails, trailing by one and two points respectively in a packed top order for the English elite.

While it may seem a close race, if Arsenal’s form is anything to go by as of late – having lost three of their last six games – then Alexis Sanchez and company will be needing to pull their socks up if they are to avoid dropping out of the top four, let alone the title race.

With that in mind, here are FIVE fixtures the Gunners’ must win in order to avoid that happening, starting with their next fixture away at Anfield …

Vs Liverpool, Mar 4

This is a big one. A really big one.

Only one point separates the two sides, who have both had poor second halves of the season in stark comparison to the first.

Both remain in indifferent form, though a win against their rivals in a crunch game for either side would certainly be a confidence boost to take into the remainder of the season. Perhaps it could also serve as a psychological advantage to whoever wins in the race for the top four.

Liverpool – now out of all domestic competitions – will be desperate to make it as it will salvage another mixed season, so Arsenal will need to be at their best to match Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Vs West Brom, Mar 18

West Brom have been one of the surprise Premier League packages of the season without a doubt.

A side who consistently sit in midtable mediocrity,  their rejuvenation under Tony Pulis has been remarkable.

Some good signings over the past couple of summers – Solomon Rondon and Nacer Chadli to name but a couple – combined with some long-standing favourites such as James Morrison have made the Baggies a formidable outfit, especially at home, where not many will take points.

In fact, they have only lost twice at home all season against both Manchester sides and they will be keen to avoid keeping that impressive record up.

Vs Manchester City, Apr 1

After their clash with West Brom, the Gunners have a potential break (depending on their success in the FA Cup against non-league Lincoln City) of nearly two weeks before their game against Manchester City, meaning Arsene Wenger’s men should be all well and rested for what will prove to be a key game.

At this point in the season, assuming Chelsea don’t monumentally slip up, it will be a contest for the remaining three top four places. City are in the better run of form, though don’t look particularly impressive defensively under Pep Guardiola, so all is set for a tense affair in which neither side will want to slip up.

Vs Tottenham, Apr 29

This fixture is still the most important of Arsenal’s and Tottenham’s seasons and one that will be on the tongue of either set of fans for years and year, regardless of the outcome.

Will Tottenham finally bury the two-decade-old legend that is St. Totteringham’s Day and finish above the Gunners? Or will Arsenal once again reign triumphant and rescue their season by finishing above their sworn North London enemies?

It’ll be the last north London played at White Hart Lane, so it’s likely to be a hugely emotional affair.

Vs. Manchester United, May 6

What a tough run-in the Gunners have ahead of them.

They really will have to pull out all the stops if they want to finish in the top four. After Tottenham comes pan even bigger fixture. United are definitely Arsenal’s bogey team and the Gunners tend to bottle it under a huge amount of pressure, meaning they will surely want the top four wrapped up before that.

With Chelsea having extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to a seemingly unassailableÂten points, Antonio Conte recapturing the crown his employers so meekly surrendered last term looks like an increasingly likely eventually indeed.Still, despite the fact first spot looks sewn up already, the race for the top four remains at its most exciting in years, considering the sheer strength of the English elite this season. Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are all in with a chance of making the Champions League as the season gears up for its business end.While pundits and fans alike will wax lyrical about the chances of each of the chasing pack, @11tegen11 (a football analytics consultancy account) have tweeted what they make the likelihood of the makeup to be following the results of matchday 27.

According to their data, City have a 91% chance of making it, while Tottenham have an 83% chance. Below them, however, it seems to be quite a close race between Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United.

The Reds are made at 67%, Arsenal at 45% and Jose Mourinho’s expensively assembled United squad are given just 15%.

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Eight short months ago, wearing a black tracksuit and a grimace, Antonio Conte arrived at Chelsea’s training facility at Cobham for the first time and surveyed the wreckage of a club that was, until recently, an imperial palace. It had taken just a single crisis to dismantle it but boy what a crisis it had been and ahead of him now, going through their routine stretches in the summer sunshine, were a group of players still shell-shocked by the experience if resolved to put it behind them.

The startling series of implosions and fall-outs that resulted in the 2014/15 champions enduring a thoroughly miserable defence of their crown was well-documented at the time, writ large across the media and centred on a famously combustible boss in meltdown and a star player essentially on strike. It dragged on and on, finding new lows as it went, first becoming a soap opera then a sitcom as rival fans chuckled at the sight of the Blues’ stumbling and stuttering their way clear of a humiliating relegation scrap.

What wasn’t well documented was the calm after the storm: the new gaffer seeking out foundations in the debris, rebuilding a collective spirit with very little time to spare. The media had long grown bored of the schadenfreude angle and had shifted their attention entirely to Manchester for Pep vs Jose as the new campaign approached.

This allowed Conte some breathing space even if it was only a gasp. Just days after he had shaken introductory hands and had his greetings translated to a distrustful squad (and that is no reflection on the players or coach – the opening gambits between both is always accompanied by selfish concerns) the club flew to Austria, then Germany, before heading to America for a four-way tournament. Less than a fortnight after that saw the demented, demanding Premier League circus reopening for business with every triumph or failure magnified under the world’s glare.

Chelsea’s transformation into formidable and stylish champions-elect was not immediate but in the great scheme of things could be considered so. And given the circumstances – a 47-year-old man completely immersed in Italian culture reviving a mutinous, multifaceted beast in barely the time it takes a second class letter to arrive – it can also be considered little short of astonishing. Retrospectively the Arsenal defeat six games in is viewed as Chelsea and Conte’s turning point, the nadir that led to a change in formation that meant every component clicked in perfect strength and unity. This is undeniably true but it should similarly be noted that the team was reborn from the off: they simply needed the right vehicle. It should also be acknowledged that this side that has equalled the Premier League record for consecutive wins and pretty much locked down the title by March has only three different faces to the one bested by Bournemouth, Stoke and Crystal Palace last term. Four if we include Kante twice, which we probably should.

It would be erroneous to suggest that this has all been ignored by the media. In fact it would be spectacularly weird if that could even be put forward as a legitimate case. But can anyone seriously claim that this incredible renaissance and consistent execution of brilliance has received anything like the attention and respect it deserves from our newspapers, websites, and television? Barring the postponement of a life it’s impossible to accurately gauge the coverage Chelsea has enjoyed this season in comparison to their lesser-achieving rivals but regular consuming of the press in its every form makes it very clear their fascinations lie elsewhere. United in freefall. United get their act together. Liverpool barn-storming their way to a possible title. Liverpool in crisis. Ranieri disrobed and Bravo fumbling. Wenger out. Wenger out part two.  Compare and contrast to the avalanche of platitudes lavished onto previous clubs who have dominated the top flight and you have your answer.

Granted there have been broadsheet think-pieces: lots of them too and usually concentrating on the compulsive Conte, the staggering reinvention of Moses, or Kante’s omnipresence. But where are the garlands that were thrown at the feet of Leicester, or Liverpool in 2014, or United during a period of high excellence that lasted a generation? Where is the love accompanying the respect?

This detachment extends to the public too who’s reaction to this fabulous side pushing at the parameters amounts to resentment that it simply isn’t fair; that they are depriving the rest of us an interesting run-in to May. This is a team showing all the dazzling superiority of a Ronnie O’Sullivan given the begrudging appreciation of a Stephen Hendry.

Like it or not – and it seems the majority lean towards the latter – Chelsea are the central story of this season and the narrative, unlike last year, is a wholly positive one. The turn-around has been incredible. The application has been exceptional. Isn’t it about time the media and general public began to reflect this, respect this, and stand in applause?

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Last night, England produced a committed and capable performance against Germany that suggested Gareth Southgate’s work in progress is moving in the right direction.

The Three Lions were the better side in the first half, whilst there was little to choose between them and Die Manschaft in the second until Lukas Podolski gave his parting gift to international football – the kind of left-footed piledriver from long-range that has become synonymous with his Germany career.

England may have ended up on the wrong side of a fast-paced 1-0 but there were plenty of positives for Southgate and the fans to take from the display in Dortmund, with a number of Three Lions stars putting in strong performances.

So, who is your Man of the Match from last night? Was it Adam Lallana, who came closest to scoring with an effort against the bar? Dele Alli, who pulled the strings in midfield and created an abundance of attacking opportunities? Captain Gary Cahill, who impressed as part of a new-look back three? Or does someone else get your vote?

Let us know by taking part in the poll below and giving each player a thumbs up or thumbs down.

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Liverpool will be looking to bounce back from the disappointing 2-2 draw against Bournemouth in midweek when they face Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday.

Jurgen Klopp’s side trailed early on against the Cherries before goals from Philippe Coutinho and Divock Origi looked set to give them their second home win in the space of four days.

However, Josh King netted a late equaliser for Eddie Howe’s side, that left the Reds in third and six points above fifth-placed Arsenal, although the Gunners do have two games in hand.

They face a Potters side this weekend that they have sometimes struggled against at the Britannia in recent seasons – they were beaten 6-1 there in 2015 – and goalkeeper Simon Mignolet posted on social media before the crucial clash.

Liverpool fans were quick to reply to the stopper via social media, with many pleading with the Belgian to be at his best in order to help the Reds take all three points back to Merseyside.

Here is just a selection of the Twitter reaction to the post…

According to reports in The Mirror, West Ham United are ready to reignite their interest in Sunderland centre-back Lamine Kone this summer.

The Irons tried to sign the Ivory Coast international last summer after he helped the Black Cats to survival, and again during the January transfer window when they were looking for defensive reinforcements.

However, the 28-year-old signed a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light last year to help the Mackems in their fight against relegation this term, but it looks to be a battle that will end with them going down.

David Moyes’ men are 10 points from safety with seven matches of the campaign remaining and they are showing few signs of pulling off an escape as they have done in recent years.

Kone will be allowed to leave the Wearside outfit if they do find themselves in the Championship next term, and Slaven Bilic still holds an interest in him.

Here are three reasons West Ham should sign Kone this summer…

They need a dominant centre-back

While January transfer window signing Jose Fonte put in an improved performance in the 1-0 win against Swansea City last weekend, he has looked far from comfortable since making the move to the London Stadium.

James Collins also impressed against the Swans but whether he should be a starter next season remains to be seen, leaving Winston Reid and Angelo Ogbonna as the other two options at the heart of the defence.

Kone could bring some dominance to the Irons defence, and it is needed after they have conceded 52 goals in 31 Premier League games this term.

His qualities

As well as his strength in the air – shown by the fact that he was won 60 aerial duels in 25 Premier League appearances this term – Kone has plenty of other defensive qualities.

He has also made 181 clearances and 44 interceptions and while he has come under criticism for some of his performances this season, he is perhaps suffering from a lack of confidence with the team losing most weeks and little protection in front of him.

The Ivory Coast international showed last season just how influential he can be, and maybe he just needs a new start to showcase that again.

Experience

Kone has been in the Premier League for well over a year now and knows what the top flight is all about, and what he needs to do to be effective against the best players in the division.

He initially took to the move to England like a duck to water and while he perhaps hasn’t grown as a player as much as he would have liked this season, there have been more than enough glimpses that he has the presence to be a great defender in this league – as long as he is in the right environment.

Do you agree, Irons fans? Let us know below.

According to reports in The Mirror, Inter Milan are refusing to give up on bringing Chelsea manager Antonio Conte back to Italy this summer.

What’s the word, then?

Well, despite being on the verge of winning the Premier League title in his first season in England – as well as facing Arsenal in the FA Cup final later this month – Conte has consistently been linked with a move to Serie A side Inter.

The Nerrazurri are in seventh position in the league after another disappointing season – while they were also eliminated in the group stages of the Europa League – and the club’s Chinese owners, Suning Holdings, want to bring in a top coach to improve them next term.

They are said to have offered Conte a deal worth £10million-a-year and significant transfer funds to return to his homeland and make them challengers once again.

How do the Chelsea fans feel about him?

They have fallen in love.

The Italian has led the rejuvenated squad that finished a disappointing 10th in the Premier League last season to the cusp of the title, and they have enjoyed his passion on the sidelines and his ability to get the best out of each and every one of his players.

Has he said he is staying?

No, not exactly.

Instead of talking about the speculation, he has preferred to concentrate on the Blues’ remaining fixtures – understandable considering they are in the middle of a crucial run-in – but not putting the rumours to bed could be a slight cause for concern for fans.

On Friday, he said: “At this part of the season there are a lot of speculations about my players, also about me, but it’s not important.”

What’s the verdict, then?

Well, if he does win the Premier League title Conte will surely want to try and defend his title, as well as giving the Champions League a real good go next season.

If he is missing Italy it could be a possibility, but Inter may have to wait at least another year before they could try and tempt him away from Stamford Bridge.

If Tottenham were to lose one of their first-choice full-backs this summer, they’ll hope it’s Kyle Walker and not Danny Rose.

The only one being linked away from the club, though, is Walker.

The fact that he’s been linked with both Manchester City and Barcelona after an alleged bust-up with manager Mauricio Pochettino might seem more than a little strange, though. Certainly to Spurs fans, who might be happy enough to see Kieran Trippier take Walker’s place next season. In fact, many may even be glad to see the back of him.

The charge leveled at Walker is that he’s too attacking, that he leaves his defensive posts too much and is therefore a liability. He is also sometimes accused of lacking end product, or that his crossing leaves a lot to be desired. Why, then, is he linked with two clubs who are among the richest and most prestigious in the world – certainly they could have their pick of talent in the transfer market.

Recently, after Real Madrid left-back Marcelo scored a late winner over Valencia to keep his side in pole position in the La Liga title race, Sid Lowe reflected on how the Brazilian is often held to task for his attacking mindset:

“Defenders who attack stand accused in a way that defenders who don’t never are. The talented are held to task where the limited are let off, as if the talent itself is the problem, a solitary flaw elevated above an hour and a half of football. As if committing fouls is the most important thing a player can learn, and not passing or dribbling of scoring. Or, y’know, playing.”

The same accusation could be made of Walker in England. It is usually his pace and athleticism that are targeted more than the attacking flair of Marcelo, though. The difference is that, in England, a player who has the ability to run fast and hard like the Spurs full-back is seen as a physical player, and the suspicion is that he’s somehow technically deficient. Usually that’s also aimed at his defensive abilities, too.

Perhaps that applies to Walker in a way that it doesn’t his teammate on the other side of Spurs’ defence, Danny Rose, who is seen as a more complete defender and therefore viewed with less suspicion.

Spurs have coped without Rose at times this season, and the fact that Walker has made 30 Premier League starts compared with Rose’s 18 shows that Mauricio Pochettino really has had to make do without him quite a bit this year.

But what’s more striking, when you compare their stats, is that you don’t see one besting the other in the sort of way that would back up the idea that keeping Rose is much more important than keeping Walker.

The infographic above compares their attacking contributions rather than their defensive ones. But even there, each average very similar numbers for tackles, blocks, clearances and interceptions.

Given that, if Walker is sold this summer – and probably for a large fee – it will likely be to a club like City or Barcelona, who favour using attacking full-backs, it looks like the England right-back would be a perfect fit.

Most of Tottenham’s width, too, comes from those players, and their performances over the last two seasons make them worthy of praise, and perhaps large price tags. But more importantly, Walker is worthy of being seen in the same light as his teammate.

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With his contract at Hull City due to expire, Marco Silva will be one of the most in-demand managers in the Premier League this summer. Earlier this month, The Telegraph revealed the 39-year-old is on the radars of Watford, West Ham and Southampton.

Although the Portuguese failed to keep the Tigers in the top flight, he’s given a strong account of himself this season – revitalising a side that were bottom when he arrived in January and keeping their survival bid alive until the final few games of the season.

Nonetheless, there’s a common feeling that Silva isn’t the miracle worker mooted by many. Whereas English counterparts are often criticised for defensive tactics, Silva has been lauded for them as if he’s some sort of tactical genius.

With that in mind, FootballFanCast asked our readers earlier this week whether Silva is the real deal or overrated simply because he’s foreign. And although the majority of those who took part in our poll voted in Silva’s favour, a significant 41% doubt his abilities.

West Ham and Southampton be warned; a big chunk of Premier League fans think Silva isn’t all he’s cracked up to be.