Third in the Premier League table, only one loss after eight matches and just a solitary point behind reigning champions Manchester City. All is rosy, right?
Nope.
Its easy to be complimentary at this stage of the season. After finishing fifth last term following the appalling collapse at the tail-end of the campaign, a quick glance at the table this time around paints a far more pleasant picture.
That canvas, however, is blurred.
Much can be said of the ability to win matches without playing well. In fact, its such a trait that more often than not is the sign of a side enough and equipped enough to deal with uncharacteristic sluggishness.