Arsenal squandered the opportunity to move nine points clear at the top of the Premier League following a goalless draw against Nottingham Forest.
Manchester City’s comprehensive defeat in the Manchester derby earlier in the day had handed Mikel Arteta’s side to put further distance between them and the chasing pack.
Forest, who were put under futher pressure prior to kick-off following West Ham’s late win at Spurs, have proven to be tough opponents for the Gunners at the City Ground in recent years and so it proved again.
Gabriel Martinelli missed the one clear chance of the first half when he skwewed wide from close range after Noni Madueke miscued his volley.
Mikel Arteta made a chance at the start of the second period with Leandro Trossard replacing Gabriel Martinelli but to little effect.
Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino and Gabriel Jesus were summoned shortly afterwards and eventually the visitors began to turn the screw.
Matz Selz made saves from Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, while Merino headed wide from a free-kick when it seemed certain he would score.
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