Saka shines in Arsenal's win against Fulham securing six point lead over City

The Gunners began strongly and turned that into a goal just nine minutes in when Bukayo Saka skilfully evaded Raúl Jiménez before crossing for Viktor Gyokeres to finish with ease.

With the captains armband on Saka remained lively along the right side while Leandro Trossard missed narrowly after an early chance.

Arsenal kept pressing and Bernd Leno had to challenge Gabriel Magalhaes in the air to block his header then quickly react to save from Gyokeres though Saka sent the follow up over.

The Emirates crowd celebrated what seemed like another score but it turned to frustration as Riccardo Calafioris headed effort got disallowed for offside.

Not long after the dynamic shifted back for the first goal with Saka latching onto Gyokeres pass and slotting it home at the near post in the 40th minute.

More joy for Arsenal came right before the break as Gyokeres leaped to nod in Trossards headed assist beyond the reach of the ex Arsenal keeper.

Saka was replaced by Noni Madueke during the interval while Jiménez nearly scored with a long range effort and Timothy Castagnes header got blocked soon into the second half.

The hosts continued to attack with Leno stretching to thwart Gyokeres from claiming a treble that eluded him as the forward along with Declan Rice were substituted moments later allowing Mikel Arteta to preserve his stars for the upcoming UEFA Champions League semi final return leg versus Atletico Madrid and the remaining Premier League fixtures.

David Raya finally faced a real test when saving from Timothy Castagne in the 73rd minute.

Ex Arsenal player Emile Smith Rowe limped off hurt following a shot attempt drawing applause from the home supporters.

Calafiori later watched Leno tip his header against the bar yet the point was clear with Arsenal notching consecutive Premier League triumphs silencing concerns over their attack and claiming the summit before Manchester Citys evening clash with Everton.

For Fulham this loss marks only their second in six league games the prior one versus Liverpool so they sit tenth yet harbour hopes for European spots.