Chelsea left-back Ashley Cole has taken a swipe at former club Arsenal, saying they may be replaced in the top four by Manchester City.

The 28-year old said that with all the spending the Eastlands club has done, it could see them break into the 'big four' at the Gunners expense.

"I think the players City are buying are good. Obviously they have got Gareth Barry, who I know from England and he's a good player," Cole said.

"They have got Stephen Ireland, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Robinho, Manu Adebayor and Carlos Tevez. They are all good players.

"This year might be tough to break in but next year, you never know with the guys they are buying.

"I think it's going to be hard for them but they could do. You never know, they may gel, click, straight away and it's magic.

"I hope they do. I have friends there and I hope they do really well - and that they finish above Arsenal."