"I’d put my house on now" - Rio Ferdinand makes major Arsenal prediction Arteta will love

Rio Ferdinand has given a positive assessment about Arsenal's chances in the Premier League this season as they continue to lead the top division of English football.

Mikel Arteta's side have had an exceptional start to the season, losing just one of their opening 12 league games.

They are top of the division - two points clear of second-placed Manchester City.

Their 30 goals scored is also only bettered by City (37), whilst their 11 goals conceded is only higher than the tally conceded by Newcastle (10).

The Gunners' form has been aided by superb attacking performances from the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli and the six goal contributions of Martin Odegaard.

In addition, Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka have both been excellent at the heart of Arsenal's midfield.

Meanwhile, defensive trio William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White have started every Premier League game this season.

Arteta's side, therefore, have started well in their quest to at least qualify for Champions League football next season - something they haven't done since Arsene Wenger guided the Gunners to second place in 2015/16.

And Man United legend Ferdinand believes they will do exactly that.

Rio Ferdinand on Arsenal

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Vibe with FIVE, Ferdinand was asked to give his predictions for the top four places in this season's Premier League.

He responded: "It'll be Arsenal, Man City, Man United, are the three ones I'd put my house on now.

"And then, the fourth one I can't pick. Newcastle could come in there and take it."

Eddie Howe's side have been in incredible form in recent weeks, winning four of their last five games.

They demolished Aston Villa 4-0 at St James' Park on Saturday, Callum Wilson scoring a brace.

Whether the Magpies can keep up their form remains to be seen, but they are expected to enter the transfer market in January, and with funds available to spend, expect them to strengthen in the right areas if required.

They also have club-record £63 million signing Alexander Isak still to return from injury, with the Swedish striker having missed the last six games.

For Arsenal, they would no doubt be delighted with Champions League qualfiication - but given their start, the club will surely be reaching for an even higher target.