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There's no doubt why Arsenal are now numerous fans' preferred choice to win the Premier League this season.

Look at their results against Newcastle and Crystal Palace in contrast with those equivalent matches last season.

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

Defensive Strength

Arsenal's defensive solidity is a key reason why they are appearing strong to finally fulfil their title goal.

They lead the league for unbreached games (6), shots let in (3), attempts against (72), shots on target faced (19) and anticipated concessions (5.3).

The central defensive pairing 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.

Dead-Ball Dominance

Their threat from set-pieces is widely recognized, but competing clubs still find it difficult to contain the Gunners from these opportunities.

They have registered 11 times from set-pieces in the league, a couple extra than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is wonderful to see."

Title Credentials

What is even more notable about Arsenal's start to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United at opposition grounds and Manchester City on home turf - and are still four points clear at the top.

While they keep winning, their traditional rivals are struggling. This marks the first time 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 manager Mikel Arteta at the outset, having invested around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in pursuit of that coveted first title since 2004.

But the spending has so far paid off in style, with his side second top scorers in the league and boasting the strongest defense, despite numerous injuries.

• Unbreached games in three straight Premier League games
• Over six hours without allowing a goal
• Only three goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and experts have labeled Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking challenging to stop" with the whole club now performing with conviction and purpose.