Former England goalkeeper David James has said that despite their impressive run in the Premier League so far this season, Arsenal will not win the title.

The Gunners currently sit four points clear of second-placed Bournemouth following their 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday. Mikel Arteta’s side took full advantage of defeats for Liverpool and Manchester City against Brentford and Aston Villa respectively.

Liverpool have now lost four consecutive league games and have slipped out of the top four. Arsenal, who have finished as runners-up in each of the last three seasons, are widely considered favourites to win the league this time around.

James, however, remains unconvinced. He had earlier predicted that Arsenal would finish fourth this season and, although he admitted their form has exceeded expectations, he still believes they will fall short of the title.

“I don’t think Arsenal will win the title, even if they’ve started well,” he said. “I think the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool will take the title race to the final weeks, if not the final game of the season.

“It will be interesting to see how Arteta handles balancing Champions League qualification with maintaining their Premier League form, but I don’t think they’ll be able to do it.”

Arsenal’s next Premier League fixture is away to Burnley at Turf Moor, while Liverpool will host Aston Villa in their next game.