Paris Saint-Germain defender Gregory van der Wiel has insisted that Ligue 1 is a competitive league, despite the French champions opening up a seven-point lead at the top of the table at the weekend.

Laurent Blanc's side recorded a 4-1 victory over Saint-Etienne on Sunday to move seven clear of second-place Angers in France's top flight, which has led to criticism of the overall quality of the division.

Van der Wiel, however, has insisted that PSG, who have won the last three French titles, need to be at their best to win every game.

"It is true that in the championship our team has a good margin but you have to be focused on each game. I do not believe it's easy. We still have to win," Van der Wiel told L'Equipe.

PSG, who also triumphed in both French cups last season, won their first Ligue 1 title in the 1985-86 campaign.