Arsenal 2 Fulham 0: Arsene Wenger hails ‘special’ Santi Cazorla

Arsene Wenger was full of praise for Santi Cazorla after the Spaniard’s second-half double sank Fulham and kept Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.

Following a goalless first half at Emirates Stadium, Cazorla slotted home after an intricate passing move from the Gunners in the 57th minute.

Santi Cazorla was like the team – good in the first half and excellent in the second

Arsene Wenger

And the playmaker made it 2-0 shortly after when his low, bobbling shot found the bottom corner of the net.

The win kept Arsenal a point clear of Manchester City, who were 4-2 winners over Cardiff City, and Wenger was delighted with Cazorla’s second-half display.

“We were maybe not quick enough in the first half,” Wenger told BBC Sport. “In the second half our tempo was much better and we created chances. Overall, it was a stable performance with maybe a lack of pace in first half.

“The players were conscious we had to step up a gear. It was just a question of time and Santi Cazorla delivered two special goals.

“He was like the team – good in the first half and excellent in the second.”

Wenger also insisted that his team must continue to stay consistent as they look to win the Premier League for the first time since 2004.

“The pressure is there but it is a positive one,” he said. “I believe it is important to keep focused on way we want to play and our solidarity in the side which is exceptional and that will get us the points.

“Manchester City are a good team as well so that makes the race even more interesting.

“There are five or six teams who will fight for the Championship. From our side we just need to be consistent.”