Crucial Match for Arsenal

Samir Nasri believes Arsenal will be out of the title race if they lose to Chelsea on Sunday.

The Frenchman was involved last weekend as the Gunners lost 3-1 at home to Manchester United - a defeat that has contributed to them falling six points off the title pace, having briefly topped the Barclays Premier League last month.

The Gunners won 2-1 at Stamford Bridge last season thanks to two goals from Robin van Persie, but will be without the injured Dutchman on Sunday.

"Defeat is forbidden," Nasri said. "That would mean the end of our title chances.

"But any other result would leave us in the running."

The Gunners have struggled against their title rivals this season, losing to United twice as well as being comprehensively beaten by Chelsea at home, and Nasri admits he is at a loss to explain why.

"We know that we can beat anyone," he added.

"Maybe we put a bit too much pressure on ourselves before matches against big teams because we tell ourselves that they are decisive for the title."

Nasri moved to Arsenal in the summer of 2008 and had an impressive debut campaign before picking up a serious injury in pre-season training which sidelined the France international until the end of October.

The 22-year-old believes he has improved under the tutelage of Arsene Wenger, however.

"I have progressed in all areas," said Nasri.

"Tactically, I know how to play on one side even though I remain convinced that I can play better through the middle. I'm also defending a lot better.

"Technically, I'm much more fluid in the one-touch game. That wasn't the case at Marseille.

"My left foot has improved. And I'm also more of a shooter in front of goal."