Clinical in attack, meaner in defence, data shows Arsenal's upward curve

LONDON: Whether Arsenal's flying start to the Premier League season heralds the beginning of a successful new chapter or another false dawn remains to be seen but evidence suggests manager Mikel Arteta has discovered a winning formula.

Arsenal top the table heading into Saturday's derby against also impressive Tottenham Hotspur - the outcome of which might offer more of a clue as to which of the two sides are best-equipped to challenge champions Manchester City.

Arteta's side have won six out of seven games - their best start since 2007-08 - although the fixture computer offered them a relatively gentle opening to the campaign.

A loss against Manchester United offered a reality check but while some will say Arsenal are flattered by their position, the statistics offer grounds for optimism.

While it has not been the most demanding of starts, Arsenal's efficiency to churn out points against the lesser lights of the top flight has been impressive.

Their last match before the international break was a clinical 3-0 win at Brentford having been heavily criticised after a 2-0 loss there last season.

Data compiled by analysts Nielsen Gracenote identifies some key areas where Arsenal have improved, from a more penetrative attack, less complicated build-up play and a meaner defence.

Based on the equivalent fixtures last season (with Fulham and Bournemouth replacing Burnley and Watford) Arsenal's chance creation rate should have resulted in a 47 per cent increase in goals scored, but that figure has actually gone up by 70 per cent, despite an 11 per cent decline in goal attempts.

According to Gracenote's data Arsenal's big chances have nearly tripled in the equivalent fixtures from 12 last season to 31 this term, with 17 goals hitting the