Arsenal have best defence in Premier League because of one key man and it's not William Saliba

Arsenal have the best defence in the Premier League. That is a fact. Twenty-four goals conceded in 30 games is three fewer than Liverpool, who have played a game less.

The Gunners also have the best attack in the league, having scored 72 goals, showing why they are top of the pile. Liverpool can of course overhaul them by beating basement boys Sheffield United on Thursday night in their game in hand.

But it is the defence we are going to focus on here, and in particular the impressive displays of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba. Saliba's absence in the second half of last season is widely regarded as one of the udnerlying factors behnd Arsenal failing to maintain their lead at the top of thet able and ultimately falling short and finishing second behind Manchester City.

The pair have played the full 90 minutes alongside each other in 27 of the 30 Premier League games this season. Gabriel missed the 2-2 draw with Fulham, sitting on the bench for the entirety of the clash, as well as the 5-0 win over Sheffield United. He came off nine minutes from time in the 5-0 thrashing of Crystal Palace.

Apart from those three matches, the central defensive partnership have been together for the rest of the season — and it has paid off with the Gunners top of the pile. Mikel Arteta will be hoping they both remain fit during the run-in, as Arsenal look to hold off Liverpool and Man City in the title race.

But there is one player who has had a major impact on the duo becoming the league's best — Declan Rice. At least that is according to former Gunner Matthew Upson.

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