The national media have backed Arsenal as the favourites to win the Premier League following their triumphant 5-0 win over Chelsea. The Gunners stormed past Mauricio Pochettino's side on Tuesday evening, establishing a three-point lead at the top of the table.

Not only have Arsenal given themselves significant breathing room but they've also added to their goal difference – quite considerably, too. However, Liverpool still have a game in hand over the north Londoners, with plenty of fixtures still left to be played.

Like Mikel Arteta's side, the Reds must still face Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United this term. So, with that being said, football.london has taken a look at how the national media have reacted to how Arsenal's win has impacted the title race.

The Independent – Jamie Braidwood

"Mikel Arteta’s side have simply picked up where they left off, and a statement 5-0 thrashing of Chelsea sent a message that Arsenal are about to attack the run-in once more. Next, it’s Tottenham, and one of the biggest north London derbies in years.

"Arsenal know that only wins will do but they are leading from the front and will also have the advantage of playing first when they host Bournemouth in early May. After that, it’s Manchester United at Old Trafford.

"Arsenal still need City to drop points but they have rediscovered their form. It gives the Gunners a chance of pushing Pep Guardiola’s side to the end of the season. And look at that goal difference. Should City fall, Arsenal have a clear advantage over Liverpool if they remain level on points."

The Guardian – David Hynter

"All that Arsenal can do is win, turn up the heat, ask the question of Manchester City, the defending Premier League champions, who retain control of their destiny in terms of this season’s thrilling title race. But how Mikel Arteta’s team won here and its message could not have been clearer. If City are to slip, Arsenal will be there to capitalise."

The Manchester Evening News – Kieran Horn

"Having bagged another five goals without conceding, the Gunners' goal difference now stands at 56 with Man City and Liverpool way behind on 44 and 43, respectively. Given how tight this season's title race has been, it is certainly possible that goal difference could decide where the silverware heads and if that ends up being the case, the advantage is clearly with Arsenal.

"Making up a margin of at least 12 would be quite the challenge for the reigning champions, especially in such a short space of time. Despite the goals advantage, if Pep Guardiola's side beat Brighton, the title race will be back in their hands as they have an extra game to play and if maximum points are picked up, they will then be two above Arsenal."

The Express – Sam Smith

"[Kai] Havertz was sold by the Blues last summer, with the German often ridiculed at Stamford Bridge. His goals in the second half of Arsenal’s season have kept them in touch with Manchester City and Liverpool. Two goals against his former club took him to 11 Premier League strikes.

"[Declan] Rice, meanwhile, was infamously released by Chelsea aged 14 and went on to develop at West Ham before becoming the most expensive British signing last summer at £105m. Every bit of that price tag was money well spent, with Rice pivotal to his team's form this season."