Arsene Wenger delighted with Francis Coquelin role in West Ham victory

Arsene Wenger believes his decision to recall Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin from loan and start him against West Ham United has been vindicated after the Frenchman's performance against the Hammers.

Coquelin, 23, was recalled from his loan spell at Charlton Athletic earlier this month in efforts to mitigate the injury crisis at the Emirates Stadium.

The French midfielder was named in Wenger's starting XI alongside Mathieu Flamini for their visit to Upton Park on Sunday (28 December), a decision that was heavily derided by supporters on social media prior to kick off.

But supporters and Wenger alike were left with every reason to be pleased with the midfielder's performance.

"He played very well, especially in the first half," Wenger told the club's official website. "He was very influential and then in the second half he fatigued a bit in the last 20 minutes, but he had a very good performance not only defensively but he also passed quickly, sharply and through the lines. Overall he had a convincing performance."

Coquelin has featured in Arsenal's last four games since his return from Charlton but Sunday's victory was his first start for the club since January 2013.

"I think everyone is happy to win this game," Coquelin added. "It was a tough one - we played against a good West Ham side and after the win on Boxing Day, I think it was important to win today as well.

"As soon as they play [Andy] Carroll up front, you know it's going to be a battle with a lot of headers and challenges. I think we coped with it quite well and scored those quick two goals, which hurt them.

"We conceded early in the second half but I think the whole team fought very well and we're really pleased to get the three points out of it."