Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes that his team's comeback victory over West Ham United is a sign that they are genuine contenders for the Premier League title.

The Gunners reclaimed top spot having seen their advantage eroded by Liverpool following a run of three games without a win.

However, they had to do it the hard way, as a brace from Theo Walcott and another from Lukas Podolski saw them recover from Carlton Cole's opener moments after the break.

"We've answered some big questions," the Daily Mail quotes the Frenchman as saying. "If we hadn't won we would have had to answer many questions. It was the kind of game that many people would have questioned us if we had not won and even more if we'd lost.

"Does this performance prove you are genuine title contenders? Yes. The team wants to do well and the character is great. Our concentration is top.

"We have had a difficult period but, honestly, that's mainly down to the schedule we have had. I completely think that the schedule was absolutely horrendous. When you do not win for four games it is important to come back for the confidence level and win."

The North Londoners, who are now one point clear of Manchester City, take on Newcastle United at St James' Park on Sunday.