There is renewed optimism surrounding Arsenal right now.

After losing their first two Premier League games under Unai Emery, the Gunners are now on a nine-game winning streak in all competitions.

They find themselves fourth in the table ahead of bitter rivals Tottenham on goal difference.

Emery's side also turned in their best performance of the campaign to seal their ninth victory in a row, beating Fulham 5-1 at Craven Cottage.

Braces from Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, as well as Aaron Ramsey's wonder-goal, made a lot of the headlines.

But it was the performance of Lucas Torreira that a lot of Arsenal's fans noticed during the London derby.

The Uruguayan midfielder really does look like the missing piece of the puzzle in Arsenal's midfield.

Not since the halcyon days of Gilberto Silva have the Gunners had a player with Torreira's characteristics.

And one Arsenal fan highlighted his importance to the side after the win over Fulham.

Twitter user @aloe_vjera posted a series of statistics showing the difference between Arsenal when Torreira is and isn't playing.

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Despite the fact Torreira has spent 100 more minutes on the pitch than off of it, Arsenal still managed to concede seven more goals without his presence.

They've also scored 11 less goals without the 22-year-old Uruguayan in action.

It highlights just how vital having a capable defensive midfielder in any system is.

For too many years, Arsenal's attacking midfielders were held back by a lack of defensive support surrounding them.

Now, the likes of Granit Xhaka, Aaron Ramsey, Alex Iwobi and Mesut Ozil can focus a lot more on scaring the life out of opposition defences.

With Torreira now a permanent fixture in the side, it's safe to say that Arsenal will certainly at least threaten the top four again this season.