But can free-scoring Gunners win silverware with such a shaky defence?
Arsenal were effectively out of the title race by November last season, with the Gunners losing to Fulham, Hull, Stoke, Manchester City and Aston Villa by the middle of the month. However, they are looking the part this time around, with Saturday’s 4-1 win at Wolves lifting them to second in the table and bringing the north London team’s goal tally to thirty-six. While they were aided by two own goals at Molineux, there’s no denying that Arsene Wenger’s team are rampant right now, although will they still be sitting pretty come May?
If Arsenal continue to score at this rate, they will finish the season with 125 goals and almost certainly be champions for the first time since 2003/4. However, comfortably beating Wolves is one thing, although the acid tests will be against the other top teams in the division. Indeed, the only points dropped so far have occurred when the Gunners have travelled to Manchester, with both United and City claiming the three points. Arsenal produced strong attacking performances on both occasions, although defensive lapses cost them dear.
Indeed, for all their attacking prowess, there is still a question mark over Manuel Almunia in goal. In addition, Jody Craddock’s consolation goal for Wolves on Saturday suggests that William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen are not the best central defensive pair in the Premier League, although Alexandre Song is one of the best defensive midfielders around. That said, it comes down to the shape of the team, especially with Wenger instructing players to rove forward at every opportunity. Aaron Ramsey and Cesc Fabregas were often the players furthest forward on Saturday and that’s with Van Persie, Eduardo and Arshavin also on the pitch!
While many neutrals will be hoping this team can win the title ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United, will a lack of defensive steel come back to haunt them?
Arsenal are 10/3 (Paddy Power) to win the Premier League this season.