Gabriel is considered one of the Premier League's best defenders and has been essential for manager Mikel Arteta in recent years in their many title races that so far have ended without a trophy.
However, the Gunners now boast a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League after a dramatic weekend which included losses for Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea. Gabriel kept a clean sheet as his side beat Crystal Palace with ease, helping their title hopes even more.
Richards admits he “wasn’t sure” about Gabriel following his £27m move to the Emirates Stadium but has now revealed that his opinion has completely changes as the Brazilian international establishes himself as one of Europe’s best defenders.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Richards had high praise for Gabriel, who looks to be unbeatable in defence this season.
“Gabriel, what a player he is. I wasn’t sure about him at the start, he made a couple of mistakes, I thought he looked a little clumsy.
“But he’s now turned into an absolute machine. He’s so key from set-pieces, for and against. People are calling Arsenal Set-piece FC but it doesn’t matter, win the game however you need to win them, that’s the most important thing.
“Arsenal are finding ways to win games, and that’s why they have a strong case for winning the Premier League.
“I never quite believed it with Liverpool’s squad and their transfer window but now you look at Arsenal, and they don’t give teams opportunities, they just don’t. They look like a well-oiled machine.”