Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has told arch rivals Arsenal that its time to show their mettle for the Premier League title.

Arsene Wenger's side has replaced Chelsea at the top of the Premier League table on goals scored, but Ancelotti reckons the next four league games will test Arsenal's challenge to the core.

Ancelotti said Arsenal's games against Aston Villa, Manchester United and Liverpool will be tough, but insists the Stamford Bridge clash will be a defining moment.

"It will be a very important period. The most important thing will be when we play them on February 7," The Sun quoted Ancelotti, as saying.

He further said that Chelsea will make a strong comeback to gain the title spot back.

"It's a perfect position for us to be in. To stay [joint] top of the list. We've been there since the start of the season. Now we're in a very difficult period and we have to try and keep that position until the end," Ancelotti said.

"It will not be easy, but I think we can arrive at the end of the season top," he added.