Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen hails ‘reliable’ Tomas Rosicky

Thomas Vermaelen has heaped praise on the “reliable” Tomas Rosicky after the Arsenal midfielder’s match-winning display at West Bromwich Albion last weekend.

The Czech midfielder scored both of the Gunners’ goals as Arsenal ran out 2-1 winners at The Hawthorns to keep their bid for a top-four finish on track.

Rosicky’s career in north London has been hampered by injury but captain Vermaelen was full of admiration for the playmaker ahead of Saturday’s clash with Norwich.

“Tomas has always been a great player for us,” Vermaelen told Arsenal’s official matchday programme.

“He has been unlucky with injuries this season but his technical qualities are amazing.

“He’s a popular guy around the club, he’s been here for a long time, he knows everyone and we all get on with him because he is really relaxed.

“On the pitch he is reliable, always available to receive the ball and his technique is almost perfect.”

Arsene Wenger confirmed on Friday morning that Rosicky is currently rated as having a 50 per cent chance of being fit to face Norwich after picking up a hamstring problem.