Arsène Wenger praised William Gallas as the definition of a great leader yesterday after the Arsenal captain’s second goal of the season gave his side a 1-0 win over Chelsea. The France defender’s first-half header against his former club took Arsenal back to the top of Barclays Premier League table.

“William pops up when you need it, and is a leader,” Wenger, the Arsenal manager, said. “That’s the definition of a leader, he’s there when you need him. He shows he’s a winner.

“Arsenal is a special club and it takes a few months to be penetrated by the spirit of the club. William has transformed completely. The spirit in the side was absolutely amazing.”

Gallas said: “It was very important to win and take three points. Chelsea still want to win the Premier League and we’re six points in front of them. It’s important to win against a big team.”