Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised the contributions made by Mikel Arteta in today's Premier League clash against Sunderland.

The Spaniard played in midfield as the Gunners cruised to a 4-1 win against the Mackems, and the Arsenal boss was quick to laud the 31-year-old for his display.

"[Arteta] is an extremely intelligent player, focused and committed," Wenger told the club's official website.

"These three qualities together make him an exceptional player and he understands everything that is going on on the pitch.

"I agree with you that sometimes his performances are not [highlighted], but we notice them."

Arsenal currently occupy second place in the Premier League, with just one point separating them and Chelsea.