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The proof is undeniable why Arsenal stand as many people's top picks to claim the Premier League during this term.

Examine their performances against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those identical matches during the prior term.

The Gunners have beaten all of them in the current season, but lost 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race in the prior campaign.

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a primary factor why they are looking well positioned to finally fulfil their title goal.

They stand first for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), opposition efforts (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the finest in the league, with Arsenal maintaining a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their danger from dead balls is well known, but opposition teams still don't know how to stop the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have notched 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals originating from these situations.

"Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just wary of them and it is great to see."

Championship Pedigree

What is particularly impressive about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their traditional rivals are struggling. This marks the initial occasion at this point of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The scrutiny was on manager Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in quest of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the business has so far paid off in impressive fashion, with his side second top scorers in the league and possessing the tightest defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Clean sheets in three consecutive Premier League games
• 385 minutes without conceding a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and pundits have described Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now performing with conviction and resolve.