Arsene Wenger has played down Arsenal's title chances despite being top of the table going into the new year.

The Gunners reclaimed top spot after a 1-0 victory at Newcastle, thanks to Olivier Giroud header in the 65th minute.

Despite his side occupying first spot, Wenger admits it is too early to start thinking about the big prize.

"We believe in ourselves and we are determined to give our best, absolutely, and to turn back on the season at the end and think we have given our best," said Wenger.

"I hope it will be enough, of course, but it's a long way to go. It's too early to say that."

Wenger was delighted with the resilience shown by his side, a trait he believes they have strengthened during the last year.

He added: "We have come out of very difficult games - we have played Everton, we have played Manchester City, Chelsea, at West Ham and Newcastle.

"We have dropped some points, but I felt it was more down to the heavy schedule and the short recovery time we have had than to the difficulty of the games.

"But we have to show it on the pitch, and that's what we try to do."