Are We Champions League Contenders?

Last updated : 24 December 2013 By Footy Mad - Editor

Arsene Wenger remains without a victory over Jose Mourinho's Chelsea after Arsenal were shackled in a goalless London derby at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners boss was bidding for a first victory over his Portuguese adversary at the 10th attempt, knowing that was what his side required to return to the top of the Barclays Premier League at Christmas.

But a defensive-minded Chelsea claimed a draw which took them fourth in the standings and Arsenal moved second, behind leaders Liverpool on goal difference.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho criticised Mikel Arteta for overreacting to a John Obi Mikel tackle and taunted Arsenal after extending his unbeaten record over the Gunners in Monday night's 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta was on the receiving end of two ankle-high tackles from Mikel and Ramires, while Arsenal might have had a penalty after Willian's challenge on Theo Walcott in the first half.

Asked about Arsenal's reaction to the decisions which went against the hosts, Mourinho said: "They like to cry, that's tradition.

"I prefer to say that English people - and I give one example, Frank Lampard - would never provoke a situation like that.

"Players from other countries, especially some countries, they have that in their blood.

"Foreign players are bringing lots of good things, but I prefer English blood in football and English blood in these situations is 'come on, let's go'."

Asked specifically about Mikel's tackle, Mourinho insisted it was fair.

"It was a hard one, an aggressive one. Football is for men or for women with fantastic attitude.

"There are other sports without contact and fantastic sports and sports that demand a lot from the players, but no contact.

"Football is a game of contact. English football, winter, water on the pitch, the sliding tackles become at a fantastic speed. So be proud, play with proud."