Former Charlton and West Ham manager Alan Curbishley believes Arsenal may have trouble securing a top four Premier League finish this season.

The Gunners confirmed at their AGM last week that finishing in the top four is their priority this season, but they currently sit two points adrift of fourth-placed Tottenham in sixth following a controversial 1-0 win over QPR on Saturday.

And Curbishley feels that the level of competition at the top of end of the Premier League means that Arsene Wenger's side may struggle to fulfil their priority.

He told Sky Sports: "I think it'll be tough this season. They managed to get in there last year with a great run near the end of the season. But they are being threatened at the moment.

"Arsene Wenger said in the club statement last week that the priority is Premier League, Champions League and then the next priority is qualifying for the Champions League, which is what they have done for so many years.

"If you're a Champions League team you can attract certain types of players. If you're out of that Champions League spot it can be very difficult. It's imperative that they finish in the top four, but I think it's going to be a bit of a job on their hands."

Curbishley went on to admit that there are a few teams that could threaten Arsenal's top four chances throughout the season.

"We've spoken about Tottenham and I think Everton as well. But I think Newcastle may, if they start picking up a couple of results, start threatening the top four as well," he added.

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