Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen and defender Kieran Gibbs have praised teammate Jack Wilshere for his impressive performance in their win over Swansea City on Wednesday.
The England international, who picked up the Man of the Match award, scored the winning goal as the Gunners advanced in the FA Cup with a 1-0 win in their third-round replay at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite Swans manager Michael Laudrup's claims, Vermaelen feels that Wilshere is one of the best in the world.
"He's a world-class midfielder and he showed again today, he played really well and was important for us," said Vermaelen.
"I'm really happy for him that he got the goal, and happy for the team."
Full-back Kieran Gibbs, who like Wilshere recently signed a new deal with the club, agrees with his skipper.
"To be honest, I thought he was close to his best when he first came back," Gibbs said. "I of all people know what it's like to come back from injuries. It's not easy at all.
"He's come straight back into the picture and for me he's a world-class player and a pleasure to play with."
Arsenal will make the visit to Brighton & Hove Albion in the fourth round of the competition.
Matt Cotton
