TOP OF ANOTHER TABLE? FAIR PLAY

Leaders Arsenal have smartened up their act with no red cards yet

- BY NEIL McLEMAN

MIKEL ARTETA claimed he was unaware that Arsenal topped the Fair Play League as well as the Premier League this Christmas.

But a better disciplinary record this season and avoiding a single red card - will play a huge role in his side's bid to win a first title since 2004.

Declan Rice was sent off (right) after getting a second yellow card for just nudging the ball away to stop a quick free-kick when Arsenal hosted Brighton last season.

The England midfielder was one of five Arsenal stars to take early baths in the last campaign along with Leandro Trossard, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Mikel Merino and William Saliba. Belgian star Trossard also received a second caution against Chelsea, also for kicking the ball away, as Arteta had to answer criticism including from Manchester City players of practising “dark arts”.

This season the Gunners are better - or smarter and more streetwise. Their combustible manager does not always keep his cool on the sidelines but his players are more in control.