Southampton boss Mauricio Pellegrino believes Arsene Wenger's Arsenal side can challenge for honours despite their inconsistent start to the season.

"We are more or less in the middle of the season and it is really early to make comments or draw conclusions," said Pellegrino.

"The last third of the season is the most important part. Arsenal have to have this race at the end with good performances. They are a really strong side.

"They're not in the Champions League this year but most of the time they are in Europe and are always fighting for the top four.

"They've bought important players and I think they are a really good team - they are a really difficult team to beat. They are a top team."