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 49 minutes for 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.