EMI DROPS THE BALL!

Martinez clanger opens floodgates as fourmidable Gunners send title message

- BY JOHN CROSS

IF THEY did not believe before, they will now.

This was a statement victory by Arsenal as they rose to the challenge and put themselves five points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal produced a sensational second half performance to blow Aston Villa away and prove they have the mentality and character to win the title. They went back to doing what got them to the top in the first place: set-pieces, free-flowing football with pace and energy.

It was no coincidence that Arsenal scored their first goal from a corner in two months because giant defender Gabriel was back in the starting line-up.

Gabriel Jesus came on and scored with his first touch with a glorious finish while Martin Zubimendi and Leandro Trossard also scored in between.

There was a big Declan Rice shaped hole in Arsenal's midfield which made for a very edgy first half.