Passion play and unity is key to Arteta's Arsenal revolution

Project has taken time to gain momentum, but it now looks like the Gunners have lift-off

- Simon Collings

AS THE Arsenal players celebrated in the dressing room after their win over Chelsea on Sunday, they were greeted by director Josh Kroenke.

Kroenke is in London on one of his regular visits to the club and wanted to congratulate the squad on the 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge that sent them back top of the Premier League.

The American, who was also at last Thursday's win over FC Zurich that secured Arsenal top spot in their Europa League group, will be thrilled with what he is seeing right now.

After some difficult times under Mikel Arteta, things have clicked this season and there is a growing sense the project that started when the manager joined in 2019 now has lift-off.

There are a number of factors behind Arsenal's new-found success, but the overriding feeling from those within the club is that the togetherness among players and staff is key.

That was evident as the Gunners celebrated wildly on Sunday, with players and staff hugging and dancing in front of a jubilant away end, but the unity was also witnessed a few weeks ago, when they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw away at Southampton.