Troy Deeney risks huge backlash from Arsenal fans with 'odd vibe' comments ahead of Leeds clash

They lost 3-2 at home to Manchester United last weekend, with Michael Carrick's side securing all three points following goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha.

That defeat followed stalemates with Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, who have both endured difficult campaigns.

Arsenal have finished second in each of the last three seasons but, as they prepare to face Leeds, sit four points clear of Manchester City and Aston Villa at the top of the table.

Last time out, against United, the atmosphere inside the Emirates turned hostile with many supporters furious that they couldn't get a winner.

Now, writing for The Sun, Deeney has risked a backlash from the Arsenal faithful by suggesting they'd be to blame if their wait for a first league title since 2004 goes on.

"If Arsenal do manage to blow this season’s title race, their panicking fans will have to take a big chunk of the blame," he said.

"This is an exceptional Gunners team, there is no doubt about that. On the pitch they have all the elements to seal a first title for 22 years.

"But, at the Emirates, there is an odd vibe about everything, a sense that everyone needs convincing and is ready to doubt the second things go wrong.

"I was at their game against Brighton last month, with Arteta’s boys 2-0 up and everyone feeling comfortable — there was no way they were going to lose.

"Then the Seagulls pulled one back and instantly it was panic stations in the stands, everyone in the ground throwing a wobbler.

"That will have a real impact on the pitch, they will feel the tension and anxiety and that — more than Manchester City or any other challenger — is now the biggest test for this squad.

"This is an Arsenal fanbase that, after so long without a title, is not used to proper success, does not understand that this little run is not the end and cannot seem to hold its nerve.

"In every game between now and the end of the campaign, we will have them down as favourites to win — but no one watching will think that.

"The fanbase and team, together, need to find that mentality which says: ‘Of course we’re winning this’."

Deeney also admitted that Saturday's match will Leeds will be telling because, if they fail to win, the pressure on their shoulders will only increase.

"The starting point of getting back on track domestically is Leeds at Elland Road today," he continued.

"It has always been a hard place to go but they should be travelling up expecting to win. The squad will be but who knows with these fans.

"Should there be a draw — and if Pep Guardiola’s City were to win at Tottenham — just imagine how much this lot would be bricking it.

"There is only one thing that will get rid of that hideous feeling Arsenal fans have in their stomachs when things don’t go exactly to plan.

"Unfortunately for the squad the only solution is to win the title — no one in the stands will rest until it is done."