Arsenal are on top of the Premier League, but now must focus on advancing in the Champions League

After watching a thrilling match today between Manchester City and Liverpool, it is safe to claim Arsenal is on top of the Premier League table following Match Day 28!

As a longtime Gooner, this is a very good day. The Gunners have now won eight straight Premier League matches by a combined score of 33-4. That, my friends, is truly amazing.

Saturday was not the most brilliant Gunner performance since January 1st, however, the team fought hard for the three points, and earned the win against a tough Brentford defense.

With that said, here are a few thoughts…

First, it was great to see Aaron Ramsdale back in goal for the Gunners. Obviously, his blunder late in the first half allowed a goal, however, Ramsdale made two outstanding saves in the second half to help seal the win. It was great to see the team come to his support and give him encouragement after the Brentford score. This is the type of culture Mikel Arteta has put into place at Arsenal. He has created a brotherhood for his players and staff.

Second, there wasn’t a lot of things on the pitch Saturday that was impressive about Brentford’s Ivan Toney. Outside of the one long ball goal attempt, Toney was held in check. Of course, it’s not fair to judge a player by just one game, but there was little evidence yesterday that he can really compete against quality defenders. Williams Saliba and Gabriel had his number all day. Of course, Edu Gaspar and Arteta will be better suited to make the decision on whether or not to bring Toney to Arsenal in the summer for a lot of money.

Third, Ben White has been a monster of late. He has been gritty, edgy and inspiring. His two assists yesterday were just sidetones to the performances we have seen from him. White is developing into one of the Premier League’s top right fullbacks.

Fourth, Following the Porto game on Tuesday, Arsenal will have a nineteen day break before playing Man City on March 31st. The break is due to Chelsea’s quarterfinal FA Cup match next week, and then the following two weeks of the international break. Two things really bother me about this long break. 1) Arsenal is in high gear right now with Manchester City’s all-important match coming up right after the break. Will Arteta bring his squad back to that high gear in time for the Cityzens? 2) The last international break of the season is coming up as well, and we all know a boat load of Gunners will be heading off to play for their nations. These international breaks always concern me regarding injuries. Of course, on the other hand, this is also a good time to get some healing and rest for the squad who remains in north London.

Fifth, how about a round of applause for Kai Havertz. This man endured a rocky start and poor press early in the season to now becoming a fan favorite. In his last four matches, four goals!

Sixth and finally, the Champions League match on Tuesday is do or die, win or go home. Arteta will be hoping to break the Round of 16 jinx that has plagued Arsenal the club’s last seven appearances in this round. Trailing 0-1 going into Tuesday, the Gunners need to continue this current run of creating, pressing and defending. A win on Tuesday puts Arsenal into the Champions League quarterfinals.

So, after all that, it’s time to wrap-up this posting.

Currently, we are riding high in the Premier League, and preparing for the Champions League.

Arteta and his team have put big smiles on many faces, and now we look forward to a big victory on Tuesday in Emirates Stadium, AND BEYOND!

COYG!

Gunner1953