The Gunners went unbeaten throughout the entire Premier League season of 2003/04 and United are currently the only team who remain unbeaten so far this season.
Smalling said: “We’re trying not to mention it. We’re happy that we’re going quietly and staying unbeaten.
“So many teams have lost points already this season that it would be tough to keep it going as Arsenal did. I’m not sure we’ll ever see that again.
“But we are the only ones who can do it this season, so who knows?
“If we can get through Christmas still unbeaten, it will be a good sign.
“We haven’t really hit top form, except maybe against Blackburn, so it’s time to send out a bit of a message.
“We take pride in the fact we are unbeaten.
“In the last 10 or 15 minutes of games we put in that bit extra to make sure the run keeps going. We are getting stronger.”
