This was almost the perfect way for Mikel Arteta to celebrate five years as Arsenal manager. Another two goals for Gabriel Jesus – his first in the Premier League since January – followed up his match-winning performance against the same opponents a few days ago as Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli and substitute Declan Rice’s first Premier League goal of the season rounded off another victory over Crystal Palace.
Only the sight of Bukayo Saka limping off during the first half with a suspected hamstring injury could dampen the enthusiasm of the travelling supporters, whose side are now only three points behind the leaders Liverpool – albeit having played two games more. But with Manchester City six points behind Arsenal and almost a speck of dust in their rearview mirror, Arteta will know that they have never had a better opportunity to go all the way after clinically dispatching Oliver Glasner’s side.
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