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Mikel Arteta's Arsenal side took a big step towards the Premier League title with a gutsy victory away to Leeds. It puts the north Londoners seven points clear ahead of title rivals Manchester City and Aston Villa, who are both in action on Sunday afternoon.

In need of a reaction following last weekend's defeat, the Gunners started fast and opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark. A whipped cross from Noni Madueke found Martin Zubimendi at the near post, with the midfielder sticking his header into the roof of the net. Moments later, the visitors found themselves two goals to the good, with an own goal from a corner, putting Arsenal into an unassailable lead.

The second half was all about putting on a professional performance, which is exactly what the league leaders did. The result was put to bed when Viktor Gyokeres turned home from close range to ensure Arsenal would head home with the three points intact. Gabriel Jesus added the icing on the cake from the bench with another goal following his return from injury. Express Sport hand out player ratings following a big win at Elland Road.

David Raya - 6

Another relatively quiet night between the sticks for Arsenal's No.1, who would've probably expected a more difficult afternoon away to Leeds.

Jurrien Timber - 6

Always a willing runner at both ends of the pitch, and that was evident throughout a soggy afternoon in West Yorkshire. Probably the best right-back in the Premier League, and by extension Europe too.

Gabriel - 6

Was given an evening off in midweek and it was probably for the best. Looked back to his sharp best after being run ragged by the United forward line last weekend.

William Saliba - 6

Another who performed much better at Elland Road compared to the United clash, with the Frenchman looking impressive next to his partner in crime, Gabriel.

Piero Hincapie - 6

Still playing out of position at left-back but doesn't look out of place. Could struggle for starting minutes with Riccardo Calafiori back in the fold.

Martin Zubimendi - 7

Needed a response after a disastrous outing on Sunday and he certainly repaid his manager's faith by netting the opener. The midfielder was key to helping sustain Arsenal's relentless attacks with his tidy touches and neat passing.

Declan Rice - 8

The glue that holds this Arsenal team together, and another reminder of the level the midfielder continues to play at week in, week out. Won't go down as his most memorable performance this season, but it was another tidy showing.

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Kai Havertz - 7

In the starting XI for the first time since the opening match of the season and making an immediate impact. His energy in the middle of the park helped stitch Arsenal's defence with its attack, with the German always looking to break lines with his forward passing. What a boost for Arteta and co. ahead of what promises to be a hectic run-in. It poses a problem for Arteta, who will have to pick between him and Odegaard going forward.

Noni Madueke - 7

Ushered into the XI following Bukayo Saka's late injury and the winger played a key role in the two Arsenal first-half goals. Firstly, with a delightful cross for Zubimendi to head home, before a similarly tempting ball was turned into the Leeds net by goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Viktor Gyokeres - 7

With injured players returning, the pressure has been ramped up on the Swedish marksman, and while his all-around play still has room for improvement, he did at least achieve what he's in the team for... scoring goals! Pure strength helped the striker hold off the Leeds defender, with his outstretched leg turning home from close range to put the game to bed.

Leandro Trossard - 6

No thrills, but plenty of effort, both offensively and defensively. Might have to start chipping in with more G/A contributions to keep Gabriel Martinelli from taking his spot in the starting XI.

Substitutes:

Martin Odegaard - 6

Dropped to the bench and would've been watching on with envy as Arsenal dominated possession. Certainly made an impact when he came on and picked up an assist with a smart pass into Jesus' feet.

Gabriel Martinelli - 7

Has turned into somewhat of a super sub this season and picked up another G/A contribution off the bench.

Gabriel Jesus - 7

Responded superbly to the Gyokeres dagger by coming off the bench and making a real impact. Before finding the back of the net, the substitute came close on several occasions. Eventually found the back of the net in some fashion, twisting and turning inside the penalty area, before drilling home.

Riccardo Calafiori - 6

Another player coming back from injury who banked some much-needed minutes in the legs.

Eberechi Eze - 6

Was treated to some pity minutes late on.