Arsenal’s Premier League campaign got off to a solid start with a 0-0 draw at home to Sunderland. Arsenal dominated the possession but some staunch Sunderland defending ensured that the spoils were shared at the Emirates Stadium.

Much of the media attention this week was focused upon the departure of former captain Robin Van Persie but Arsenal showed enough to suggest that the future is not quite as grim as the fiasco that defined the beginning of last year’s season.

Promising signs

Once again Arsenal have seen their brightest star depart and the hollow excuse that Van Persie has offered will do little to assuage the considerable anger that the fans will have towards the prolific Dutchman.

In contrast to last year there have been positive signings and the contribution of Cazorla today indicated that Arsenal have an extremely talented and exciting talent in midfield. His passing and his control with both feet point towards a creative dynamism that has been somewhat lacking since Cesc Fabregas left. His shot in the sixth minute also demonstrated that his attacking prowess is a considerable asset to the club.

The imminent departure of Alex Song does not seem quite so grim given the strength in depth that Arsenal currently have. The return of Jack Wilshere and Diaby should ensure that all hope is not lost in the middle of the pitch.

Gervinho showed that his performance in pre-season has continued into the Premier League campaign. His runs today were dangerous; he was fast, creative and always looked a very real threat. Whilst some fans have been sceptical of the Ivory Coast striker he looked sharp and eager to impress the 60,000 odd that were in attendance.

Whilst both Giroud and Podolski looked threatening both were unable to convert their respective chances. The lack of a goal this afternoon will be made in the wake of Van Persie’s departure but that does a disservice to what was a credible and encouraging first outing from Arsenal.

Promise of a season

Whilst it was certainly frustrating that despite the dominance of possession and chances Arsenal did not take three points this was the first competitive encounter of the 2012/2013 season. Given the calamity that defined last year a draw with a resolute and well organised Sunderland side should not be a cause for concern. The club will survive the departures of Song and Van Persie respectively.

The new signings and the collective unity that permeates this particular group of players should allow the kings of North London to mount a considerable challenge for honours this year.

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