Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Arsenal's move to the Emirates Stadium has affected the club's ability to keep their top players.

The Gunners have seen stars like Thiery Henry, Matheiu Flamini, Alexander Hleb and Gilberto all leave the club since their move to the new stadium.

And Red Devils chief Fergusuon believes the debt racked up to build the new arena could be the reason.

"I think I read that the debt of the stadium is causing them a problem," Ferguson said.

However, Ferguson insisted that the north Londoners still cannot be written out of the Premier League title race this season.

"I wouldn't write off Liverpool or Arsenal. Arsenal had a good start last season and that carried right through until they had injuries," he said.

"It's been understated what Arsenal did last season because they got injuries at a bad time. In February they lost most of their midfield.

"Who is to say it wouldn't have been closer if Arsene had kept his players fit?"

[Guardian Series]

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