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It's evident why Arsenal stand as numerous fans' top picks to claim the Premier League during this term.

Look at their results against West Ham and Crystal Palace compared to those equivalent matches in the previous campaign.

The Gunners have defeated all of them this time around, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously.

Impenetrable Rearguard

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

They stand first for shutouts (6), goals conceded (3), attempts against (72), quality opportunities against (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The center-back duo of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the strongest in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Dead-Ball Superiority

Their danger from dead balls is highly documented, but competing clubs still don't know how to stop 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 resulting from these situations.

"Arsenal can excel in various aspects now. The whole team has a intimidation presence. People are just wary of them and it is wonderful to see."

Championship Pedigree

What is even more notable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also faced Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still ahead by four points at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their long-standing opponents 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 pressure was on boss Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in search of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the business has so far paid off in remarkable manner, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and boasting the tightest defense, despite several injuries.

• Clean sheets in three consecutive Premier League games
• Over six hours without letting in a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across all competitions

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