Speaking ahead of Sunday’s crucial clash at St James’ Park the Frenchman also revealed that Craig Bellamy is the man who most worries the Gunners.
"They are the team that many people keep forgetting when they talk about the title race," he told the London Evening Standard.
"People talk a lot about Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea but they rarely mention Newcastle. What I like is the way they have sneaked into the race.
"They've just got on with the job. They've made no big noises but, without saying anything, they've suddenly crept up among the pacemakers.
"I think they're a good side with some very talented youngsters, especially Craig Bellamy. It will be difficult for us to go to St James' Park and get the result we need."
If we win on Sunday people will have no choice but to take our challenge seriously.