Wigan manager Roberto Martinez was always aware of the capabilities of the Arsenal side, so their impressive 3-1 win over Chelsea on Monday did not surprise him at all. The Latics entertain the Gunners on Wednesday night and the Spaniard is fully aware of the test that awaits.
"It didn't surprise me at all," said Martinez.
"We know what Arsenal are capable of and last night they looked really impressive.
"The way they moved the ball, the pressure they put on and the quality in the last third; that was Arsenal at their best.
"They are magnificent to watch and if they can carry on at that level, you could see a very special side for many years to come."
Even the absence of Cesc Fabregas through suspension does not give Martinez much comfort.
"It won't make a difference," stressed the Wigan chief.
"I expected a few changes anyway and look at the quality they didn't use yesterday. Chamakh, Diaby, Rosicky. They have so many options.
"Mentally they will be very well prepared for it and they are just hitting form.
"There is never a good time to play a top-four team but you feel Arsenal are starting to peak."
"It is so tight," he added at the top of the league.
"There are five teams up there, competing and challenging with each other for the title.
"There are many twists left yet.
"We are only halfway. I don't think you can speak about the final outcome until you get into the last third of the competition.
"What it has done is show that the top five clubs, all in their different ways, have great options to win the title."
