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It's obvious why Arsenal are now countless pundits' preferred choice to secure the Premier League during this term.

Examine their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent 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 previously.

Impenetrable Backline

Arsenal's defensive strength is a key reason why they are looking well positioned to finally fulfil their title target.

They lead the league for clean sheets (6), goals conceded (3), shots faced (72), dangerous chances allowed (19) and expected goals against (5.3).

The defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the best in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Dead-Ball Excellence

Their threat from set-pieces is widely recognized, but rival sides still don't know how to contain the Gunners from these situations.

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 do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just fearful of them and it is great to see."

Title Potential

What is even more notable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also played 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 premier instance 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 scrutiny was on boss Mikel Arteta at the beginning, having invested around £250m on eight summer additions in quest of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far paid off in remarkable manner, with his side one of the most prolific attacks in the league and possessing the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Unbreached games in each of their last three Premier League games
• Over six hours without allowing a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across various contests

Former players and analysts have described Arteta's men as a "juggernaut, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now operating with confidence and resolve.