Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia says their defence has been key to the club's surge up the table.

The Spanish goalkeeper praised the understanding between him and his centre-backs, former captain William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen, a £10million signing from Ajax last summer.

"We have a great relationship," Almunia told the Sunday Mirror. "Thomas is a great guy and a great signing for the team.

"William is a fantastic defender and he's a strong character. But if you know him, it is easy to deal with him.

"Some people don't know how to take him. But if you speak to him and understand how he thinks about football, you can manage.

"I have learned how to play with him. Maybe William doesn't talk too much about the game to other players but I understand him.

"I know when I have to speak with him and when he wants to speak to me. Our communication is good, even without words."