Thomas Vermaelen says Arsenal's defence showed great quality for their draw at Stoke City.

They denied the hosts any real clear-cut opportunities in a strong rearguard performance.

"We didn't give away too many chances in the whole game and that is a good thing," Vermaelen told Arsenal Player. "The whole team showed a good spirit and we fought hard - we deserved a point.

"Defensively the shape was good, with Song in front of us and he helped us a lot."