Arteta encouraged as leaders Arsenal end Fulham jinx

Mikel Arteta described Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Fulham as a positive indicator for the Premier League frontrunners, marking the end of their past difficulties at Craven Cottage.

Leandro Trossard's goal from close range in the 58th minute clinched Arsenal's fifth win in a row across all tournaments.

The Gunners lead by three points over Manchester City in second place, while Liverpool, the defending champions, sit four points back before facing Manchester United on Sunday.

Last season, Arsenal managed only one point from away games at Newcastle and Fulham, plus their home match against West Ham.

This season, they have secured all nine points from those same fixtures, and the win at Craven Cottage represents their first success there in three attempts against the west London side.

Arteta views these triumphs as a strong declaration of ambition for Arsenal, who finished as runners-up over the past three years and now aim to claim the title for the first time since 2004.

"Our history against them lately was not on our side, and we aimed to turn that around, just as we did with Newcastle and West Ham at home," Arteta commented.

"This marks another progression in developing that mentality and skill to triumph in such games versus tough opponents, in a challenging venue.

"With the score at 0-0 and time dragging on, it grows tougher. Yet we displayed great composure. We persisted in attacking from different angles, and eventually succeeded via a set-piece, though we earned it fully."

Shortly after Trossard's strike, Bukayo Saka appeared to win a penalty after being fouled near the corner of the box by Fulham replacement Kevin.

Referee Anthony Taylor initially awarded it, but VAR determined Kevin had contacted the ball prior to fouling Saka.

Arteta, who showed clear irritation from the sidelines, explained: "I got worked up due to the delay.

"I questioned Anthony about the hold-up. It related not to the review itself, but the monitor malfunctioning.

"Likely it was not a penalty anyway, so they reached the correct call ultimately, and my reaction stemmed from the wait."

The sole disappointment for Arteta involved Swedish forward Viktor Gyokeres missing out on a goal for the seventh match running.

Acquired from Sporting Lisbon during the summer transfer window, Gyokeres has yet to adapt effectively to Premier League demands following his impressive record in Portugal.

"He came near once more today. We all hoped he would net one," Arteta noted.

"His effort for the squad is outstanding. We offer him backing and encouragement, and the goals will arrive soon."