Have we got a three-way title race? Mr Alan Shearer asks

Alan Shearer

A year ago, it was a little unexpected to see Arsenal five points clear of City when the Premier League paused for six weeks for the World Cup, with Newcastle in third place.

The current top three is a lot less surprising.

Yes, City dropped points at Stamford Bridge, but they are still top of the table heading into the international break, which is probably where most people expected them to be.

The same goes for Liverpool and the Gunners, who are both a point behind them. I have always thought it will be those three battling it out at the top for the whole season, and I still do not see anyone different getting in there.

To be beaten by two stoppage-time goals at Molineux on Saturday was a cruel way for Tottenham to suffer their second defeat of the week, but I never expected them to challenge for the title anyway.

Even after losing to Chelsea and then Wolves, Spurs have still done much better than I expected.

Their aim for this campaign has to be to finish fourth or fifth, which might be enough to secure Champions League football for next season, and I don't feel that changed despite their strong start.

Aston Villa are up there too, and are clearly a good side who will be a match for most, particularly at home, but again I still do not see them as title contenders - although I do not think anyone will relish a trip to Villa Park.