Wenger unfazed as Man Utd go top

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal side drew 0-0 at Portsmouth on Boxing Day

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is unconcerned that his team have lost their lead at the top of the Premier League heading into the new year.

Man Utd beat Sunderland 4-0 on Boxing Day to move ahead of the Gunners, who drew 0-0 away at Portsmouth.

But Wenger said: "I prefer to be in front, but with one point difference that is not that big a deal.

"We have only lost one game so you will have problems to convince me that we are in a crisis."

Interview: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger

Arsenal travel to Everton this weekend having picked up just two points from their three previous away games.

The Gunners drew at Newcastle on 5 December and lost at Middlesbrough four days later - Arsenal's only defeat in the Premier League this season.

But Wenger's team could have won at Fratton Park if captain William Gallas and midfielder Tomas Rosicky had not squandered late chances.

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The hosts had a great chance themselves when Benjani rounded Manual Almunia after being put clear by former Gunner Kanu, but the Zimbabwe international was unable to apply the finishing touch.

And Wenger believes that to be trailing by just one point at this stage of the season is not a bad thing.

"Although a 0-0 draw is a disappointment it is not too bad," he added.

"If we go six months again by just losing none then we will be champions," said the Frenchman.

"I believe that if we just try and focus on our performances and get a good result at Everton then everything is alright."