'People are intimidated' - the reasons 'powerhouse' Arsenal are the squad everyone fears.

It's clear why Arsenal have become countless pundits' top picks to claim the Premier League this season.

Examine their results against Fulham and Crystal Palace compared to those equivalent matches last season.

The Gunners have beaten all of them this time around, but surrendered 10 points across those games as they dropped off in the title race previously.

Impenetrable Backline

Arsenal's defensive strength is a primary factor why they are looking well positioned to finally fulfil their title target.

They rank top for shutouts (6), goals allowed (3), attempts against (72), quality opportunities against (19) and xGA (5.3).

The central defensive pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba is potentially the strongest in the league, with Arsenal recording a clean sheet in six of their first nine games.

Set-Piece Mastery

Their effectiveness from free kicks is highly documented, but opposition teams still find it difficult to stop the Gunners from these chances.

They have scored 11 times from set-pieces in the league, several additional than any other side, with 69% of their goals coming from these situations.

"Arsenal can do a bit of everything now. The whole team has a fear factor. People are just afraid of them and it is great to see."

Title Claims

What is especially notable about Arsenal's beginning to the campaign is they have also encountered Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United away from home and Manchester City in their own stadium - and are still leading by four at the top.

While they continue triumphing, their traditional rivals aren't faring so well. This marks the first time at this stage of the season since 1992 that none of Manchester City and United, Liverpool or Chelsea are in the Premier League top four.

The expectations was on head coach Mikel Arteta at the outset, having spent around £250m on eight summer acquisitions in pursuit of that elusive first title since 2004.

But the business has so far paid off in remarkable manner, with his side among the highest scorers in the league and possessing the most resilient defense, despite multiple injuries.

• Clean sheets in each of their last three Premier League games
• 385 minutes without allowing a goal
• Only a trio of goals in 12 games across every tournament

Former players and analysts have described Arteta's men as a "powerhouse, looking difficult to stop" with the whole club now functioning with conviction and purpose.