Wednesday 13 January 2016 22:04, UK
Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal's recent form ensures his team go into their game against Liverpool in the right frame of mind to mount a sustained title challenge.
The Gunners have won seven of their last eight matches in all competitions, with a Boxing Day defeat at Southampton the only blemish on their recent good run.
Wenger said: "The momentum creates confidence and confidence is vital at that level.
"In December and now in January we have been consistent and we go into a very important part of the season because we play many games, and that consistency is a good basis to go into the next game with the right belief."
Wenger made five changes for Saturday's FA Cup third-round victory over Sunderland with Mesut Ozil and Per Mertesacker among those rested for the 3-1 win.
Ozil and Mathieu Flamini are expected to be available for the trip to Anfield, as the Gunners look to defend their two-point lead at the top of the table.
One player who will not feature however is forward Alexis Sanchez who continues to recover from a hamstring complaint.
Wenger said: "For Alexis, the Liverpool game will come too soon but he has a chance to be available for Stoke and his development is going well.
"He is always keen to play. If you listen to Alexis, he can always play, even when he is injured. We try to be cautious.
"With a muscular injury you never exactly know how big the risk but he is very close. If you look at him training he is very close."
Wenger also remains hopeful a deal for Egypt international midfielder Mohamed Elneny will be completed by the end of the week.
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