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The evidence is undeniable why Arsenal have become numerous fans' top picks to claim the Premier League during this term.

Examine their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace versus those equivalent matches last season.

The Gunners have defeated all of them during this campaign, but lost 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously.

Defensive Prowess

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a crucial element why they are seeming ready to ultimately achieve their title ambition.

They rank top for unbreached games (6), goals allowed (3), attempts against (72), shots on target faced (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the strongest in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Proficiency

Their threat from set-pieces is well known, but competing clubs still find it difficult to stop the Gunners from these situations.

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

"Arsenal can perform multiple roles now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is excellent to see."

Championship Pedigree

What is even more remarkable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City at home - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents aren't faring so well. 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 boss Mikel Arteta at the outset, having allocated around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far paid off in style, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and having the most resilient defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Unbreached games in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without allowing a goal
• Only a handful of concessions in 12 games across various contests

Former players and analysts have described Arteta's men as a "unstoppable force, looking hard to stop" with the whole club now functioning with confidence and purpose.