Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere was in the thick of it for victory at Wigan Athletic.

On Saturday at Wigan, to the delight of Arsene Wenger, he combined technical acumen with bravery.

Never better illustrated than during the first period when he timed a sliding challenge on Shaun Maloney to perfection, only to be cautioned by referee Jon Moss.

"I think it was a foul on Wilshere by Maloney. It looked a perfect tackle. I think he was a bit provoked by the crowd reaction," said Wenger.

"I like Wilshere. After 25 minutes you look at him and he is dirty from top to bottom."