Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table to seven points after being held to a 0-0 draw by a resilient Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Saturday.
The Gunners missed the opportunity to open up a nine-point cushion following Manchester City’s 2-0 defeat to local rivals Manchester United earlier in the day. A lacklustre first-half display from Mikel Arteta’s side allowed Forest to frustrate the league leaders and strengthen their own survival hopes.
Despite dropping points, Arsenal remain well placed in their bid to end a 22-year wait for the Premier League title.
Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche, who had criticised his team’s performance after their FA Cup exit to Wrexham last weekend, was rewarded with a spirited response as his players battled to earn a valuable point. The result moved Forest five points clear of the relegation zone.
Manchester City’s four-game winless run in the league has eased the pressure on Arsenal, but successive goalless draws against Liverpool and Forest have prevented the north London club from building a commanding lead.
Third-placed Aston Villa could cut the gap at the summit to four points if they defeat Everton on Sunday.
Arsenal struggled to create chances in the opening half and failed to register a shot on target before the break. Arteta turned to his bench in the second half, introducing Leandro Trossard at halftime before bringing on Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Jesus before the hour mark.
Saka came closest to scoring when his looping header from Declan Rice’s cross was superbly saved by Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels. Merino also missed a clear opportunity, failing to direct Rice’s well-delivered free kick on target.
While Arsenal were unable to find a breakthrough, their defensive solidity ensured they at least extended their lead at the top, recording an 11th clean sheet in 22 Premier League matches.
