I have longed for an Arsenal performance to bring with it patterns, style and system. The north London derby drubbing of Tottenham is one hell of a time for it to click into place and I, you, we are all here for it.
The pre-match apprehension about Granit Xhaka’s inclusion in the game and the criticism, including plenty from myself, that went with it was slammed hard into the mud with a commanding first 45 minutes. How glorious it is to be wrong when it benefits Arsenal.
The longing to see simple triangles from Arsenal instead of feeling like the club were forcing play into the wide areas was so refreshing. Demonstrated by the perfect counter for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal.
A striker who has for so long been looked at as a one-dimensional finisher dropped in and his flick to the onrushing Emile Smith-Rowe was sublime. The interplay and understanding of one another will hopefully be something the Gunners can continue to develop as they build on this win. His celebration... perfection.
I, amongst many others, was very much on the Emerson train throughout the early portion of the summer window but Takehiro Tomiyasu’s acquisition and integration have proven the club right so far not to opt for the Brazilian instead.
Emerson meanwhile sat out the first half and was introduced by Nuno Espirito Santo at halftime to try salvage something from the domination his side were experiencing. His performance, after coming on, brought with it no indication of progression in the position for Spurs.
Bukayo Saka and Smith-Rowe have been challenged to influence the game much more and Arteta's faith in them to continue whilst dropping Nicolas Pepe was significant. A decision that was paid off in equal measure with both scoring and assisting.
At 20 and 21 years of age, this Hale End duo, should the goal contributions continue, can become the bedrock of progression the club needs.
To come full circle, what was always going to be the second to a win was a performance. And by 'Ek' did the Arsenal fans get one in the presence of their prospective future owner.
The pressing shown by the forward line, inspired by Martin Odegaard's energy, was of a side with hunger. There can be little doubt about the sinking of the argument Arteta had lost the dressing room.
A team simply does not fight in the same way if guided by a coach who lacks his player's backing.
And when Spurs did come on strong towards the end of the game, it was another new arrival in Aaron Ramsdale who pulled off a stunning save to keep it at 3-1 and keep the joyous momentum inside the Emirates alive.
Four wins in a row and with Brighton, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa to come, the potential to string a run of games together is clear.
What a difference a couple of weeks can make to form. Although, what a difference a couple of months can make to a season. Let us wait with excitement, a much welcome replacement for apprehension.
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