Sorensen: Arsenal are spineless

Stoke City's goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen has labelled Arsenal as "spineless" and believes that the Gunners do not have what it takes to challenge for the title.

Arsenal slipped to a 2-1 defeat against Stoke on Saturday which saw them clinging on the the title race by their finger nails.

Arsenal were beaten by Rory Dela's long throws and Sorensen does not think they have what it takes to compete against current leaders Chelsea.

"I think with the way the other teams are playing, it's going to be really hard for them," said Sorensen in The Sun.

"They are a fantastic football side, but they are just lacking that bit of physicality.

"When Chelsea came here, they matched us in the challenges, but Arsenal weren't quite there. That's the difference. They lack that bit of spine you need.

"They want to play all the time and sometimes you have to work hard and earn that opportunity to play your football.

"I've played against Arsenal a lot of times and I expected much more of them.

"They have their excellent players, like Cesc Fabregas. But they didn't find the fifth gear they normally do.

"Once we got the second goal it felt like we were cruising. They totally lost belief. I think they expected a bit of an easier ride and no one's going to get that here."

Perhaps Sorensan should re-evaluate his statements though as he admitted to challenging Arsenal's Dutch striker Robin van Persie in order to aid him seeing red.

He added: "I was teasing Robin. You could see in his eyes the frustration. I used that."