Arsenal captain Robin van Persie has heaped praise on teammate Mikel Arteta for his brilliant performances since his arrival from Everton.
The Spaniard has been very consistent for the Gunners and his contribution has not been lost on van Persie who has been impressed by the midfielder's intelligence.
"What I really like at the moment is that you can see people stepping up a level and growing in confidence," van Persie told Arsenal's official matchday programme. "I can really notice that around the team.
"For example, Mikel Arteta is playing really well. He's so intelligent. He knows when to go forward, he knows when to sit back.
"Sometimes Alex Song makes a run forward, and because of his experience, Mikel can read the game perfectly, knows when to go forward, when to help his team out, or when to play others.
"Everyone can see he has grown into his role, and you can tell he has played many games in the Premier League."
