Granit Xhaka admits it was special to hear the Arsenal fans singing his name after their win over Brentford at the weekend.

One unexpectedly positive surprise about Arsenal’s start to the season has been an explosion of goal contributions from midfielder Granit Xhaka.

The 29-year-old has a goal and three assists already, which beats his totals from any of the last three full seasons. In fact, he’s only managed more than four Premier League goal contributions in two of his six full campaigns with Arsenal.

There’s no doubt that form helps the team going forward, and the Arsenal fans recognised Xhaka’s performance on Sunday, singing “we’ve got Granit Xhaka” repeatedly.

After the game, Xhaka went over to the supporters to be serenaded, which can be seen in footage captured from the stands.

Xhaka responded to the chants by saying: “Thanks for your support. You’ve been amazing, but as well for myself, to hear what happened today, you say my name, sing the song for me… It’s a very, very special day. Thank you again, and see you soon!”

Arsenal’s captain on the day, in Martin Odegaard’s absence, Xhaka put in a performance worthy of the armband.

The Swiss international’s renewed bond with his club’s supporters only seems to be building since Mikel Arteta’s arrival at Arsenal, and this was just the latest example of that.