Fabregas is still popping up when we need him most, as he did so frequently through the early months of the season, but then his shots were more likely to ripple the net

A few weeks ago I started writing an article entitled ‘Arsenal Will Be Crowned Champions’; I figured that if Arsenal kept amassing points at the rate at which they were doing so, then they’d finish with around 91 points. Manchester United would then have had to acquire 33 points from their remaining 12 games to match that tally; meaning that they could afford to drop only 3 points. Chelsea would have had to win all of their remaining 12 games to hit 91.

Four frustrating games later the table is looking markedly different; if Arsenal keep amassing points at the rate they have been, then they’ll finish with around 84 points. Chelsea 83. Manchester United will be champions on 89.

The reasons for Arsenal’s slump have been talked about, agonised over, in several places. Complacency was certainly a factor at Birmingham. The fact that Arsenal’s squad is comparably smaller than their main rivals is probably a key issue. Adebayor has led the line magnificently this season, too often on his own. He now looks exhausted.

And Fabregas is still popping up when we need him most, as he did so frequently through the early months of the season, but then his shots were more likely to ripple the net. Against Villa, Wigan and Middlesbrough he fashioned crucial chances for himself, but couldn’t score. Hleb’s goal threat disappeared from whence it came some time ago now, but more worryingly, his form seems to have gone with it.

It would be churlish to criticise though. Few outside of North London expected Arsenal to really challenge this year. They have had a good season. And they’ll be even stronger next year.