Johnny Nicholson: tougher tests await impressive Arsenal 

Talking Points: Leeds march on, toothless Wolves and Steven Gerrard's stagnant Villa. 
QUICK START: Arsenal fans celebrate at full time on Saturday: Picture: Steven Paston/PA Wire.

QUICK START: Arsenal fans celebrate at full time on Saturday: Picture: Steven Paston/PA Wire.

Arsenal; summer’s high achievers

Obviously Bournemouth wasn't much of a test for the Gunners and harder games await, but even so, they do look like a much better balanced and more complete side this year. Last season they lost their first three games, this year they’ve won them and look unlikely to suffer points losses against the ‘lesser’ clubs and are a much better bet to compete against the best. Their conversion rate is twice as good. What is so impressive is how fluid they are in their transitions. In peak form they play an easy on the eye liquid football. They have width with Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard is starting to look imperious in an advanced midfield role and with Gabriel Jesus scoring and assisting, the front two thirds are working very well. But it’s easy to over-rate any team when the sun is still hot in August. October will be a watershed month with Spurs, Liverpool and Manchester City to play, then Chelsea on November 5th. Those five weeks will help define their season.

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