I’ll keep this brief. What I am hoping to see from the players that line up against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this afternoon is total commitment to Arsenal’s cause.

Granted, the fear is that the defeats to Chelsea and United at home this season are evidence of a deeper trend, rather than blips. But Arsenal are in a great position in the table, and must try to make the most of this opportunity. That means making up for last weekend with two performances of real determination against Chelsea and Liverpool in the next two games.

The players are capable of it – we saw that in the opening games of the season. It’s about wanting to win the personal battles and going into challenges with a genuine hunger to win the 50/50s, and being in the position to make them.

Chelsea are a big, physical, experienced team, but one that is wobbling just a bit at the moment. The Gunners must signal their intent that this season’s Premier League campaign is alive and well in spite of last weekend’s setback.

Manchester United lost 5-0 at Newcastle in October 1996. They went on to win the title that season. Arsenal have to switch on and ensure this season does not fizzle out, chastened by the poverty of their performance on Sunday 31st January.

These guys are paid enough money. Let’s see them display blood, sweat and tears to earn it. Starting at 4pm this afternoon. They can do it, so let’s see it. From the first whistle to the last. The game against Chelsea is a real opportunity. Seize the moment and take it. If they play out of their skins then no-one will have reason to criticise the players in the same fashion as the last seven days.

Come on you Gunners!