Three things we learned from Arsenal win as title credentials renewed despite imperfect performance

Arsenal got the job done – and that was about it.

The Gunners could have doubled their lead to put the match to bed before the final whistle, but instead they had to remain switched on until the end.

It was not a great performance by any means, but as the fixtures come thick and fast at this time of year, ticking off the wins is all that matters.

Here’s what Standard Sport’s Matt Verri learned at the Hill Dickinson Stadium…

This should not have been as close as it was for Arsenal.

The first half was played at walking pace and the Gunners were unable to kill off the match after the break, with Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi both curling efforts against the post and Bukayo Saka having a shot cleared off the line.

With it remaining 1-0, the opportunity was there for Everton to pile the pressure on in the closing stages. Arsenal, though, kept them at arm’s length.

This was a far more impressive display in holding on to a narrow lead than they produced a week ago in a nervy, cautious defeat of Wolves.

Here, Everton did not have a single shot after the 80th minute, even with six added on.

Piero Hincapie had been shaky earlier in the match but he stepped up with several clearances in his own box and Arsenal also kept the ball much better.

Gabriel Jesus did a good job of frustrating Everton in the corner and it meant late drama never felt hugely likely.

Arteta has insisted in recent press conferences that the goals would come for Gyokeres and the striker’s wait was ended here.