Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has suggested that his old side have the ability to win the Premier League because they are now willing to grind out results.
The Gunners are known for playing an attractive brand of football but have been criticised in the past for neglecting their defensive responsibilities.
However, Parlour has said that the manner of their Community Shield win over Chelsea on Sunday shows that they can frustrate their opponents in order to earn a result.
"Arsenal looked a lot better prepared for the Community Shield, and had a great pre-season," Parlour told The Telegraph.
"I thought Chelsea were lacking a bit of urgency. Arsene Wenger's side had that extra spark.
"José Mourinho said that Arsenal stopped playing at the end, started parking the bus. That has been lacking for six or seven years. You have to defend as a team and they showed a lot of character by doing that."
Arsenal begin the Premier League season at home to West Ham United on Sunday.
Steven Toplis
