Wenger hails Arsenal character after victory over West Ham

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger hailed his team's character after overcoming Thomas Vermaelen's dismissal to win over West Ham United.

Brazilian midfielder Denilson fired the Gunners in front after only five minutes as they looked to leapfrog Manchester United and Chelsea, who do not play until Sunday.

However, Vermaelen was deemed to have been the last man when he pulled down Guillermo Franco, and was shown a straight red card by referee Martin Atkinson.

Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, however, saved Alessandro Diamanti's penalty and captain Cesc Fabregas - back from a injury lay-off - made it 2-0 with nine minutes left from the same spot following a handball by Matthew Upson.

"I believe we had an outstanding game," Wenger declared.

"We played with class and spirit and we kept our nerve when the situation became difficult, so overall we have shown a good attitude, good maturity, and in the important moments in any department we were decisive.

"Everybody adapted very well to the situation and technically I believe we were outstanding today."

Wenger was left fuming by Atkinson's decision at the time, which rules Vermaelen out of the next game at Birmingham - leaving Arsenal short at centre-back.

"I felt it was very harsh," he said.

"We have seen this situation so many times in the game without it being punished at all."