Leeds 1-4 Arsenal: 4 talking points as Gunners stay fourth at Christmas

3. Arsenal’s Fast Starts Are Here to Stay

One thing Arteta’s side has been known for over the last two or so months is their ability to start games on the front foot and put their early dominance on the scoreboard. Tonight, three goals in the first half rubber-stamped that.

Against West Ham, the performance had everything but a goal in the first half, against Southampton they scored twice in the opening 27 minutes, and they scored first against Manchester United and Everton, even though they somehow lost both games.

The performance in the opening 45 minutes was breathtaking but it is something we have become accustomed to of late. Energy, chance creation, team cohesion, and most importantly goals are all becoming a staple of Arteta’s side.

Most notable is the speed with which they attack. The pace is frightening and the exceptional movement from all across that forward line will trouble even the toughest defences in this division.

It is the youngest side in the Premier League this season and while there will be some growing pains, nights like this show that when they are on it from the outset, they are a dangerous side for anyone to face.

Continued on next page…