Arsenal bounce back from their European defeat, dominating Crystal Palace in a 4-1 win, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal’s impressive comeback

Arsenal demonstrated the resilience of champions-elect as they bounced back from their Europa League disappointment to secure a convincing 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

This Sunday’s win in the 28th game week of the Premier League showcased the Gunners’ determination to maintain their position as league leaders, widening the gap over Manchester City to eight points as we head into the international break.

An (almost) flawless performance

Bukayo Saka, as he tends to do, stood out in an impressive team, assisting Gabriel Martinelli for the opening goal in the 28th minute and then scoring twice himself (43rd, 74th).

Granit Xhaka netted Arsenal’s third goal (55th), while Jeffrey Schlupp managed to score a consolation goal for Crystal Palace (63rd), who offered more threat than many expected.

Arsenal now enjoy an eight-point lead over Manchester City although the Citizens have a game in hand.

Crystal Palace remains 12th.

Mikel Arteta happy

Mikel Arteta spoke after the game and was happy the team’s reaction following their elimination from the Europa League.

The Gunners’ performance against Crystal Palace was solid and showcased their ability to stay focused on their goal of claiming the Premier League title for the first time since 2003-04.

“Really happy, really pleased, the way we started the game I was already really pleased with how they reacted to Thursday,” Arteta said.

“We took any question mark away from it, showed a lot of determination and purpose in our way of playing.

“Really happy to perform the way we did after playing 120 minutes, after losing two big players for us and then still compete and win the game in the way that we did.

“The team did really well. We have individuals that excel to be at the level that we want. Bukayo was again really good today. Really affecting the game with his contribution, especially in the opponents box. So yeah really happy with him.”

Updates on Takehiro Tomiyasu and William Saliba

Mikel Arteta also gave updates on Tomiyasu and Saliba who both missed the game after picking up injuries against Sporting.

“We don’t know [about Tomiyasu]. The doctor is assessing.

“We have one assessment and I think they need to have another assessment tomorrow. It’s not looking good. Tomi is not one to exaggerate things. He was really concerned straight away and we are concerned.

“We hope Willy is going to be better news.

“Again We have to wait to tomorrow to get a better picture.

“We lost players, we lost Gabi for four months, we lost Thomas for one and a half months, we lost Alex Zinchenko for one and a half months, we lost Mo Elneny for six to eight months.

“Now we’ve lost Eddie and Tomiyasu or Saliba. Everybody has to give a bit more. It’s not a secret. If we want to maintain that level we have to give more and Rob is clear example of what we needed today.”

A tough road ahead for Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace, on the other hand, are in a bit of trouble.

They recently sacked manager Patrick Vieira and have not won a match in 13 games across all competitions.

Despite sitting 12th in the table, the Eagles are only three points above the relegation zone and will need to make some critical decisions to secure their future in the top flight.

April will be a crucial month for Crystal Palace as they face six of their relegation rivals in Leicester, Leeds, Southampton, Everton, Wolves, and West Ham.