Thomas Vermaelen hailed Arsenal matchwinner Mikel Arteta after victory over Everton.

The Spaniard has been a virtual ever-present since his summer switch from Everton and Vermaelen thinks Arteta has been a worthy addition to the squad.

"He has been really important for us," the Belgian told arsenal.com. "He is not only important on the pitch but off the pitch as well. He talks a lot, he's an experienced player.

"He is really important in midfield because often you win and lose games in midfield."