Arsenal seem imperious in their push towards the Premier League title this season, even as injury issues continued to build in recent weeks. The Gunners were without either of William Saliba or Takehiro Tomiyasu against Crystal Palace, resulting in Rob Holding playing at centre-back against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
It appeared to be something of a tough fixture, even despite the recent troubles that the Eagles have faced since the turn of the year. Friday saw a change in management as former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira was dismissed, prompting a potential reaction and some tough moments in the opening phases of the game.
That tension appeared to dissipate nearly half-an-hour into the clash though as Bukayo Saka's pass reached Gabriel Martinelli, who shifted the ball from right-to-left and drilled home for the opening goal. That lead was doubled before half-time as Saka then drifted beyond the Palace defence to curl the ball into the back of the net.
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Those two goals meant that the English winger took his Premier League goal involvement tally to 21 for the season, setting a record in the division this season by becoming the first player to reach double figures for both goals and assists. It underlines just how important the Hale End academy star has been in the title push.
The youngster has stepped up when needed and his involvement in such a push would make former forward Thierry Henry proud. Saka happened to replicate the great Frenchman in his celebration, grabbing the corner flag in the same fashion after adding his name to the scoresheet.
It's not the first time Saka has done this so far in the campaign, celebrating in the same fashion against Aston Villa just a few weeks ago. It remains to be seen just how many more the winger can add to his tally this season, but full focus will be on helping the push for the title.
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