Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham: 5 talking points from North London Derby win

4. Takehiro Tomiyasu, Aaron Ramsdale and Whole Defence Shine

Arsenal’s backline of Gabriel, Ben White, Kieran Tierney, and Takehiro Tomiyasu were all outstanding. Just as they were against Norwich and Burnley, only better.

White and Gabriel marshaled Harry Kane well and effectively put him out of the game. Tierney and Tomiyasu were defensively solid with the Japanese winning everything in the air and on the ground in what was another impressive performance from the former Bologna man.

What a signing he looks like being. The crowd adore him. Dogged, determined and athletic, it was a fabulous outing for him.

The passion and togetherness from this Arsenal rearguard is something that has been sorely missing over the years. With Ramsdale and Gabriel leading it, there are hopes of a sturdy foundation for seasons to come. The communication coupled with their ball-playing ability make this Arsenal back-four a solid unit – and it is only going to get better with more matches.

Both White and Gabriel played some delectable balls out from the back either through lines or as long switches, with the only noticeable blip being White’s fortunate penalty escape.

On Sunday when there was a defensive tackle or a save from Ramsdale, the entire back four were in unison as their determination and willingness to play for the badge was incredible on a day that meant as much to the fans as it did to them.

Four of those back five were signed during Arteta’s reign and the other handed a new deal. Some astute signings, it would appear.