Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal gave another flawless performance on Sunday afternoon.

The Spaniard didn’t put a foot wrong as the Gunners beat Manchester United 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium, but reserved his praise for someone else.

“Last year he showed what an important player he is for the team,” Monreal told the Final Whistle on Arsenal.com. “He scored 25 goals in all competitions and this season he has started really well.

“In the first games, he couldn’t score goals but now he’s scoring goals. We need Alexis to score more goals and we are happy for him because he’s a really important player for us.

“When he’s fit, the level of the team is higher, so we are really happy.”

Two superb goals from Alexis, split by Mesut Özil’s calm finish, set Arsenal on their way on Sunday afternoon and shocked the Red Devils. Within seven minutes Arsenal were 2-0 up, within 20 it was 3-0 and the game was over.

Alexis’ two goals summed him up. The first, beautifully crafted, taken with calm style. The second showed his robust nature, and was powerfully smashed home. He combines finesse and strength brilliantly and, on Sunday, so did the rest of the team.

Monreal was also excellent so shouldn’t spend too long praising others. Unlike our last win against Manchester United, he didn’t get on the scoresheet, but he was absolutely superb.

If Arsenal can give this sort of display more often, there will be no doubting the team’s credentials as the season moves forward