West Brom 1 Arsenal 2: Wenger hails Rosicky and Gervinho displays

Arsene Wenger singled out Tomas Rosicky and Gervinho for special praise after Arsenal boosted their hopes of Champions League qualification with victory at West Bromwich Albion.

Rosicky scored either side of the break to give the visitors a 2-0 lead, before James Morrison dispatched his penalty to set up a tense finale after Per Mertesacker was sent off for a foul on Shane Long.

However, the 10-man Gunners held on to secure a vital win in their push for a top-four finish – and Wenger was thrilled by the Czech playmaker’s man-of-the-match display.

“[He was] fantastic,” said Wenger of Rosicky. “He’s an important player for us. Unfortunately he was injured for a long time but every year he gives us a little push at the end of the season. That is very important.

“I hope he finishes his career with us. He still has one year on his contract. I rate him very highly.”

And Wenger also heaped praise on Gervinho, who set up Rosicky’s opener in impressive style at the Hawthorns.

“He has another assist,” said the Arsenal boss. “He is dangerous. When you have to defend, it’s a bit more difficult for him. As long as you have the ball and are going forward, he always looks dangerous.”

Arsenal host Norwich City in their next Premier League fixture on 13 April.