Arsenal FC: 5 Reasons for Gunners' Fans To Smile

It's been a glum few weeks, but I am of the opinion that Arsenal fans shouldn't be worrying as much as they are.

While I have been renowned for maintaining faith, as proven in this instance, I don't think I'm being too optimistic in predicting a good season for Arsenal.

On the back of a victory against Swansea and an away point at Borussia Dortmund, there are several reasons to smile.

1. One of the Best Strikers in the World

Never mind his injury ridden past because, although he's been particularly unlucky, every player suffers a little bit.

Robin van Persie proved midweek that he's still fantastic and will score goals to lift Arsenal's season. It's no surprise the Dutch national team got to the World Cup final with this man in it.

His interception created a chance against Dortmund and he finished it off in style.

A world-class striker is something every team craves and Arsenal has a committed one in their midst. 

2. The Inevitable Return of Jack Wilshere

I don't think anyone would be making quite so much noise about the inevitable Cesc Fabregas departure had Jack Wilshere not been ruled out for a few more months.

Arsene Wenger clearly rates Wilshere as the future of Arsenal's midfield, just as he once rated Fabregas.

Mikel Arteta was not bought as a replacement for his compatriot but, instead, as a compliment to Wilshere, who will be the star and main man of the midfield. Throw Chuck Aaron Ramsey in there as well and you've got a wonderful trio of creative players.

3. Wojciech Szczęsny Looks Fantastic

He's only 21 and he's shining consistently. He has much to learn and has made mistakes in the past, but they will become few and far between this season.

His reflexes are incredible, his frame is huge and his persona is commanding. Another of the much sought after positions a world-class team looks to secure is the goalkeeper and Arsenal has one already.

He saved Arsenal's skin a few times in the qualifiers against Udinese and, on more than one occasion, has looked up to the task against bigger teams. He will move past errors such as the one in the Carling Cup final as he comes of age.

4. Andre Santos Will Fill the Void Left by Gael Clichy

With Gael Clichy, you had quick, incisive forward runs combined with a high work rate.

With Andre Santos, you won't see any difference. He isn't amazing defensively, but neither was Clichy. He will get forward, hug the line and become an offensive presence like a typical Brazilian full-back.

I don't think Arsenal is any better off without Andre Santos, but they haven't taken a backward step in calibre from the Clichy days.

He will provide flair, excitement and another attacking outlet. I can see him being particularly effective at the Emirates' stadium and he will prove to be a better first choice than Kieran Gibbs.

5. That Point in Dortmund Was an Excellent Result

Being English, I tend to want English teams to do well in the European competitions. I watched eagerly as Arsenal took on Dortmund and it must be said it was nice to see that yellow and black back in Europe's elite.

Borussia Dortmund are good. They are a very good side. Mario Gotze, Shinji Kagawa, Mats Hummels and Lucas Barrios are all fantastic players and the guys around them are no slouches.

They won the German Bundesliga last season, topping FC Bayern Munchen by some distance. If Arsenal had taken a point away from the Allianz-Arena, it would have been deemed an impressive result. I deem this result in the same way.