Paul Merson makes Chelsea and Arsenal prediction before London derby clash with clear warning

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has claimed that the Gunners could send a clear title message if they were to beat Chelsea at the weekend, but warns that the Blues are more than capable of causing a shock. It comes as the two teams prepare to face-off after the international break.

It has been a London derby that has swung back and forth over the years, but it appears to be in the favour of the red side this time around. Mikel Arteta has managed to transform his team from serial top four outsiders in recent years to one that seems capable of challenging for the Premier League title.

Arsenal came close last season, leading the way for the majority of the campaign until Manchester City pipped them to the title in the final few games. A summer spend of £200million has seen the north Londoners back amongst it once again, with a record that is currently unbeaten in the league.

It's a slight contrast to the fortunes of Chelsea, who were once in such a position but have found themselves struggling over the past year. A change in ownership has seen a fresh approach to signings take place, with a huge player churn resulting in a core of promising but inexperienced youngsters.

With that comes variance in results, with the Blues yet to fully click under Mauricio Pochettino as they sit in the bottom half of the table. There have been signs of promise though, having won their last two league matches and with performances that are threatening to bring more.

It sets up a tantalising game when the two teams face off at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with some making predictions before the game. Former Arsenal star and Chelsea fan Paul Merson has given his thoughts on the clash and what it means for the two teams this Saturday.

In a column for Sky Sports, he said: "Arsenal come to Stamford Bridge this weekend and they will have a go at Chelsea, so it will be interesting. But against the better teams, like Liverpool who had a right go, those are the games Chelsea have played well in this season.

"With where Chelsea are in the league, teams will not want to play them because on their day, they can beat anybody and when Raheem Sterling is playing like he did at Burnley, then he is unplayable. Mauricio Pochettino's side can kick-start their season with a win, but this is also a big game for Arsenal. This can be another marker laid down for them. If they win this game, I'm looking at Arsenal as major, major players."