Arsene Wenger has paid tribute to midfielder Francis Coquelin for his "convincing performance" in Arsenal's 2-1 win away to West Ham United on Sunday.
The Frenchman earned his first Gunners start in over two years as Wenger's side edged out the Hammers to move level on points with fourth-placed Southampton in the table.
Coquelin, 23, spent November on loan with Championship outfit Charlton Athletic, and the Arsenal boss is happy with how his compatriot fared on his return to top-flight action.
"He played very well, especially in the first half. He was very influential and then in the second half he fatigued a bit in the last 20 minutes," he told the club's official website.
"But he had a very good performance not only defensively but he also passed quickly, sharply and through the lines. Overall he had a convincing performance."
The North Londoners will move into the top four if they beat the Saints at St Mary's on New Year's Day.
Shane Callaghan
