Thomas Vermaelen impressed by Nacho Monreal debut

Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen has declared that he was impressed by Nacho Monreal's debut in the 1-0 win against Stoke City on Saturday.

Monreal joined the Gunners from Malaga on deadline day and went straight into the team to face Stoke last weekend.

The Spanish international full-back helped Arsenal keep a clean sheet and Vermaelen believes that the 26-year-old will prove to be a shrewd purchase.

He told Sky Sports News: "He only had one training session with us I think but he came in and did really well.

"You can see he's quality. I think he will be a great signing for us."

Vermaelen missed the Stoke match with an ankle injury and is unlikely to play for Belgium this week despite reporting for international duty.