Arsenal launched their Premier League title defence in emphatic fashion, thrashing Coventry City 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Friday to send an early message to their rivals.

The champions proved too strong for the newly promoted Coventry City, who found life in the top flight an immediate challenge. Arsenal's performance was authoritative from start to finish, leaving little doubt about their intentions for the season ahead.

The comfortable victory at the Emirates Stadium sets Arsenal up perfectly as they look to retain the title they claimed last term.