Wenger: LFC will challenge

Arsene Wenger has backed Liverpool to be among those fighting for the title this season.

The Arsenal boss watched from the touchline as his charges laboured to earn a point against a Reds side who played with 10 men for the entire second half following Joe Cole's dismissal.

And he left Anfield in no doubt that Liverpool mean business under Roy Hodgson.

Wenger said: "I believe Liverpool will be a contender for the top places. They defended very well and are an intelligent team. It could be interesting.

Watch Wenger's press conference

"We had a lot of possession but Liverpool defended very well and we didn't create many chances. But we kept going and we showed we weren't going to give up. 1-1 is always a good result at Liverpool.

"I felt we deserved a draw. We controlled the first half and our 'keeper didn't have a lot to do. In fairness they defended well.

"In the second half we could have done better. They had a strong start, and 1-0 down to 10 men sitting deep made it difficult.

"We kept going and threw more people forward and I think we deserved our equaliser. We couldn't lose that game without feeling very hurt about it. Overall we have shown the right attitude."