Arsenal’s summer signings give Arteta tools to end Reds’ reign

MIKEL Arteta’s Arsenal have come out of the international break firing, lending credence to the notion that this could finally be his year to return the Gunners to the top of the pile for the first time since the 2003/04 season of the Invincibles.

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There were many, myself included, who felt the Gunners were just one quality goalscorer shy of mounting a legitimate title challenge. Enter Victor Gyokeres (give him time).

How about backup for star attacker Bukayo Saka? Noni Madueke provides quality cover on the right, while Eberechi Eze brings plenty of flair down the other flank or even centrally.

And what would a transfer window be without the addition by the former midfield strongman of - you guessed it - another central defensive midfielder or two? The already impressive backline was also boosted with the arrival of two quality central defenders and a backup goalkeeper.

The Spaniard can be rightfully pleased with Arsenal's transfer business, which has added great depth and tactical flexibility to his team.

It also means injuries will not derail their charge as easily as in past campaigns.

Saka, William Saliba and Kai Havertz are missing from the current squad, yet the Gunners seem unfazed.

Saturday's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, under new manager Ange Postecoglou, the former Spurs boss, showcased a more clinical Gunners team who are easier on the eye as an attacking unit, yet have lost none of the defensive solidity of seasons past.