The win on Saturday brought out some aspects of the side that Gooners should find welcoming.

We have always been accused of shying away from a game when opponents became physical and stopped us playing and this did not start with the present squad. Toward the latter end of the Invincibles we were bullied at places such as Blackburn and Bolton - it is how we lost the title in 2003 and 2005.

Watching Nasri and co fight back (almost literally) harked back to Keowns gone by, it was great to see a goal via a free kick (I always wondered whether Denilson was really Brazilian; the free kick put paid to those doubts), Eduardo regaining some confidence and the new Diaby (he looks physically bigger than last season) will stand us in good stead.

Villa at home is a massive game they have beaten Chelski and Manure already this season and I recall us playing really poorly at the E******s last year. A win will install even more belief, especially with Chelsea playing Birmingham away - a very tricky game.

My main concerns still revolve around defensive cover once Song goes away. With Le Boss stating The New Diaby is not a defensive midfielder I don't see many options other than Ramsey or playing Eastmond and co for a month. Let’s see.

Here' s hoping Santa is a Gooner this Xmas .