Arsenal began the new year on a high note, coming from behind to defeat Brentford 3-1 at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s side trailed after Bryan Mbeumo’s opener, but Gabriel Jesus equalized midway through the first half.
Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli then struck in the second half to secure the win.
The victory marked Arsenal’s 12th consecutive unbeaten match in all competitions and closed the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool to six points.
Arteta had urged his players to be like a “hammer” in the title race, and they responded with a resilient performance.
Ethan Nwaneri, making his first Premier League start, impressed on the right wing, providing the corner that led to Merino’s goal and delivering the cross that Martinelli converted for Arsenal’s third.
Nwaneri’s display was a positive sign for Arsenal, who are looking for solutions on the right wing in the absence of injured Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal’s win was all the more impressive given that they were affected by a sickness bug in the camp.
Kai Havertz was absent from the squad, while other players were feeling unwell.
Arteta will be hoping that his side can maintain their momentum despite the challenges ahead.
The Gunners face a tough run of fixtures in the coming weeks, including matches against Brighton, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Wolves, and Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Liverpool will be looking to maintain their lead at the top of the table, with matches against Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, Bournemouth, and Ipswich on the horizon.
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