Remember that ‘crisis’ after the first two games of the season? The one concerning Arsenal not scoring any goals? Two games and eight goals later it is safe to say that that crisis is over. A sublime display of attacking football against Southampton has rounded off a very good start to the season.

The only real down point for me was that we didn’t keep a clean sheet.  Considering that it was only one scored against us today the Goal Difference column is still looking very healthy. The team were fantastic going forward, the left side in particular causing all sorts of problems in the opening periods. Podolski and Gibbs linked up very well, with Cazorla providing the link from the middle.

Cazorla

If any more evidence was needed that Wenger recognises a brilliant talent when he sees one then Cazorla provided it with a midfield masterclass today. Cazorla, my and many others choice for man of match, again showed why at four games in, many are calling him the signing of the season.

The freedom he has in his midfield role, the ability to roam and find space, and his brilliant touch combined with an eye for a pass make the little Spaniard a joy to watch. The man who keeps the midfield ticking with his calm, controlled play is now surely one of the first names on the team sheet.

Gervinho

A word on Gervinho, too: the Forehead (as he is affectionately known in my household) has received a great deal of criticism from fans, myself included, but I have never doubted that he does have the desire and work ethic.

His performance against Southampton was really encouraging. He chased everything, worked really hard for the team and scored two goals which will hopefully give him the confidence to continue playing this way.

Podolski

Podolski was outstanding and his free kick shows that it is in fact a rocket at the bottom of his left leg, not a foot. The German’s work rate was tremendous and the interplay between him and Gibbs down the left is proving to be very effective.

Szczesny didn’t have his best game in goal, he was at fault for their goal and his distribution was poor, but, for me, he is still our number one and Mannone is making sure that there is some competition at the position. He best keep on his toes, though, any more performances like that and calls for Mannone to be played with grow louder and louder.

Momentum

Detractors will point out that scoring six past newly promoted Southampton at home is nothing to get excited about but, and excuse the cliché, you still have to go out there beat whoever is in front of you.

More importantly, the team is really gaining some momentum and with another win it appears that the new players have gelled in with the rest of team and they are starting to find form. The shooting boots are on and the play is assured and determined.

Tests ahead

The next fortnight brings two early season test as we travel to the champions next weekend following a trip to France on Wednesday.

The game against Man City will undoubtedly be a very tense affair and if we can show how far we have really progressed if come away from Manchester with three points. Based on what I have seen, I think that we can definitely take all three points against the Billionaires.

Then, just for fun, there’s Chelsea the week after. An early season test which I’m sure will prove to be very intriguing.

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