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The evidence is unmistakable why Arsenal are now numerous fans' preferred choice to claim the Premier League this season.

Examine their outcomes against Newcastle and Crystal Palace compared to those identical matches in the previous campaign.

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

Impenetrable Rearguard

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are seeming ready to at last realize their title ambition.

They stand first for unbreached games (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), quality opportunities against (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The central defensive pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba is possibly the best in the league, with Arsenal keeping a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Expertise

Their effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but rival sides still don't know how to contain the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra 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 fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is great to see."

Title Potential

What is especially impressive about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also played Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United on the road and Manchester City on home turf - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they maintain victories, their long-standing opponents are struggling. This marks the initial occasion at this juncture 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 start, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in quest of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far proven successful in remarkable manner, with his side second top scorers in the league and having the most resilient defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Shutouts in each of their last three Premier League games
• 385 minutes without letting in a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across all competitions

Former players and analysts have labeled Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now functioning with belief and determination.