Arsenal moved six points clear at the top of the Premier League with a dominant win over Fulham, inspired by Bukayo Saka and a brace from Viktor Gyokeres.
With title rivals Manchester City not in action until Monday, Mikel Arteta’s side seized the opportunity to apply pressure with a commanding first-half display at the Emirates.
Saka, making his first start since returning from injury, made an immediate impact.
The winger beat Raul Jimenez down the right and set up Gyokeres to tap home inside nine minutes.
The roles were reversed before half-time, as Gyokeres slipped Saka through and the England international finished confidently at the near post.
Gyokeres then grabbed his second just before the break, heading in Leandro Trossard’s cross to effectively seal the result.
Arsenal could have added more, with Riccardo Calafiori hitting the crossbar, but the hosts were already in complete control.
This was a near-perfect night for Arteta’s side.
Not only did they extend their lead at the top, but they were able to rest key players - including Saka at half-time - ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg.
Saka’s return added sharpness to Arsenal’s attack, while Gyokeres continued his strong debut season, taking his tally to 21 goals in all competitions.
Fulham struggled to cope with Arsenal’s intensity and creativity, offering little threat going forward.
They managed just one shot on target and rarely looked capable of troubling the hosts.
The defeat dents their hopes of securing European football, leaving them needing a strong finish to the season.
With just a few games remaining, Arsenal have put themselves firmly in control of the title race.
Attention now briefly shifts to Europe, but confidence will be high as they continue their push for a first league title in over two decades.
