Arsenal have significantly improved their balance between defending and attacking this season, according to Everton manager Ronald Koeman.
Arsene Wenger's side have lost just one Premier League game this season and occupy second place in the table ahead of tomorrow's trip to Goodison Park.
Liverpool are the only side to have scored more goals than Arsenal in England's top tier while the Gunners also boast the third best defensive record in the division.
And Koeman, who tasted victory over Wenger during his time in charge at Southampton, is adamant the Frenchman has introduced important changes to his side this term.
"[They have] world class players and we know what we need to do," he told a pre-match news conference.
"If we keep a compact team we can make it difficult. But I think this Arsenal is better than it was.
"I have the experience with Southampton to beat Arsenal several times.
"But I think Arsenal this season are more in balance between defending and attacking. In my opinion really Arsenal are one of the favourites to win the title."
Arsenal are set to travel to Merseyside in rude health but Everton have endured a disappointing run of form in recent weeks.
The Toffees have won just one of their last 10 top-flight fixtures and Koeman has admitted he is disappointed with such a paltry points return.
“If I was a fan, I’d be disappointed about one win out of 10," said the Dutchman.
"But you have to understand these situations - it’s not about running more or fighting more. It’s also about the quality, the movement on the ball and creating chances.
"Underpinning everything, we need to keep the faith and maintain our belief,” Koeman added.
