Liverpool the real test for Arsenal's Emery evolution

Handed an unforgiving start as Arsenal's first new manager for nearly a quarter of a century, Unai Emery has quickly put defeats to Manchester City and Chelsea behind him with a 13-game unbeaten run to earn the respect of the Gunners' support.

However, the real test of how far Emery's Arsenal have evolved since being outclassed by City on the opening weekend of the season comes when Liverpool travel to the Emirates on Saturday.

Arsenal have won 12 of those 13 games unbeaten, the only slip coming at Crystal Palace last weekend when they conceded two penalties in a 2-2 draw.

Yet, they haven't faced any of the Premier League's top six from last season in that run, with defeats of Watford and Everton their only victories over sides in the top half of the table.

Emery still seems to be searching for the right balance, while also getting two star centre-forwards in Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang into the side.

Lacazette and Aubameyang have already combined for 14 goals between them this season and their firepower has so far got Arsenal out of trouble, particularly late in games with Emery's men yet to enjoy a half-time lead in the Premier League.

It is to Emery's credit that his changes have often impacted the game positively for his side, and that Arsenal only trail league leaders City and Liverpool by four points heading into this weekend.

The priority for Arsenal this season remains a top four finish and a return to the Champions League rather than a title challenge, and Emery is well on course for that goal.

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