Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes he has a new "midfield general" in Cesc Fabregas and he will look to the Spain international to deliver in a crucial run of matches over the next month.
Fabregas showed with Sunday's impressive performance in the 2-0 win at Bolton - where he scored his 10th league goal of the season and had a hand in the second - he is quite capable of dominating a game.
"He looks like a real general in midfield now and of course that helps as we go into a period of important games," said Wenger, who believes all his squad have grown into genuine title contenders.
"It was a test of character (at the Reebok Stadium) and they have shown plenty - which is very good news for us.
"Over the years our strength has increased and we showed we have matured - we know when to go for the fights and we know when to put the ball down.
"Without a doubt there is still more to come because we are a young team.
"We have a very tough run of games coming up but let's be focused on the next one and keep it simple."
Victory by two clear goals over Bolton on Wednesday will take Arsenal top of the table on goal difference from Chelsea before the break in action for the FA Cup fourth round this weekend.
"It is important psychologically - not mathematically so much," Wenger added.
"We have a good opportunity to do it so we have to focus."
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