🔗 Share this article 'People are fearful' - the reasons 'powerhouse' Arsenal are the side to defeat. Gabriel Magalhaes marks Arsenal's triumph over Crystal Palace There's little doubt why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' top picks to secure the Premier League this season. Look at their outcomes against Newcastle and Crystal Palace versus those same matches during the prior term. The Gunners have overcome all of them this time around, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they faded in the title race previously. Impenetrable Rearguard Arsenal's defensive strength is a crucial element why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title target. They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), opposition efforts (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3). The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the best in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games. Set-Piece Proficiency Their effectiveness from free kicks is well known, but rival sides still struggle to contain the Gunners from these opportunities. They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, several additional than any other side, with 69% of their goals originating from these situations. "Arsenal can excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just fearful of them and it is great to see." Title Credentials What is particularly notable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United on the road and Manchester City at home - and are still leading by four at the top. While they keep winning, their traditional rivals face difficulties. This marks the first time at this stage of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four. The expectations was on manager Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having allocated around £250m on eight summer signings in quest of that long-awaited first title since 2004. But the spending has so far proven successful in style, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and possessing the most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries. Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games 385 minutes without letting in a goal Only a trio of goals in 12 games across every tournament Former players and pundits have described Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now operating with belief and purpose.