Arsene Wenger impressed with Gabriel Paulista debut

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger stated that he was impressed with Gabriel Paulista's debut as his side beat Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Sunday.

Two goals from Olivier Giroud saw the Gunners through to the last eight of the competition, and Brazilian centre-back Gabriel made his first appearance since signing for around £15m from Villarreal last month.

However, Wenger told the club's official website: "It was interesting to observe Gabriel today because he played his first game in a cup game that we absolutely had to win.

"He has shown three important qualities - great concentration levels, great urgency to defend and good pace, especially on the recovery tackle he made in the box. On the other hand, he played a little bit with the handbrake on because he did not want to make a mistake.

"From what I've seen there's a lot to come from him because technically he is good at passing as well."

Wenger also recently revealed that Jack Wilshere is close to a return to action.