Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was quick to praise his defence following his side’s 2-0 win over Fulham in an English Premier League match on Saturday.

It was a frustrating opening 45 minutes which saw Fulham defending in their numbers and Arsenal unable to create many opportunities in front of goal.

The second 45, however, saw the Gunners finally penetrate the Fulham backline with Santi Cazorla grabbing a brace to secure the victory.

Wenger, though, pointed out that in cases like this, where teams are kept at bay in the first half despite dominating matters, it is easy for the defence to lose concentration, but his side kept focus throughout.

“Defensively we did really well today,” said Wenger after the match.

“We were one paced in the first half and then Cazorla delivered two excellent goals and everyone is happy. In the second period it appeared to be a matter of time.

“Santi has missed a large part of the season, but he is free from pain in his ankle now and we are seeing what a great player he is.

“Stability though is vital and we have to be patient going forward and that is why I believe our defenders deserve credit.”

While Wenger praised his defence, midfielder Jack Wilshere paid tribute to the patience his side showed on the day.

“We've had a few games like that here this season where teams have come here and tried to stop us from playing, but we've shown once again we can break anyone down by being patient,” said Wilshere.

“We know we are going to create chances and Santi came up with the goods today.

“We're still top of the league and that gives us good confidence and we'll look forward now.

“We know we are going to be able to score goals, it's just a matter of putting the ball in the net and being tight at the back, which we've done this season so hopefully we can continue.”

The result saw Arsenal maintain their place at the top of the table on 51 points from 22 league games, one point above second placed Manchester City.