Arsenal Player Ratings vs. West Ham: 2-0

Arsenal sent a clear title message with an emphatic 2-0 win against West Ham.

After Denilson opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a superb strike, the Gunners were then forced to 10 men when Thomas Vermaelen was given a straight red from a debatable challenge in the penalty area.

The decision seemed dubious as West Ham were also awarded a penalty too. Thankfully shot stopper Manuel Almunia saved Alessandro Diamanti effort sensationally.

Arsenal then performed strongly in the second, keeping as much possession as possible as well as attacking with prowess.

Arsenal were then awarded a penalty in the 81st minute after Matthew Upson hand-balled. Cesc Fabregas easily slotted it home and Arsenal now enjoy a day at the top of the table.

Player Ratings

Manuel Almunia: 8.5: Quite possibly the most important save of his career. The Spaniard's terrific save of Diamanti's penalty ensured Arsenal went into halftime with the lead and gave them hope for the second half.

Who knows, maybe if Arsenal are successful with their title challenge, Wenger may have to keep Manuel Almunia.

Emmanuel Eboue: 8: Defended well but attacked magnificently. Always a threat with the ball, his speed and trickery a great asset in the Arsenal attack. Conjured up the ball that found Fabregas that then found Upson's upper arm.

Sol Campbell: 7: The Englishman's experience proved useful when the Gunners were reduced to ten. A few shaky moments but all in all a solid effort.

Thomas Vermaelen: N/A: Was playing well before a soft challenge ensured he was sent for an early shower. Harsh to be sent off but many could criticize and say the Belgium was to careless and clumsy. 

Gael Clichy: 8.5:  Beginning to return to the form that was evident in 2007/2008. Ran hard down the left helping increase the Arsenal attack. Was also a solid defensive figure down the left. 

Alexandre Song: 9: A strong, strong performance. A great first half cutting down the West Ham attack with ease. Was then forced to move into the defensive line after the send off and precede to put in a good show. Currently Arsenal player of the Season.

Denilson: 7.5: Another strong striker meant the Gunners opened the scoring. Also proved useful in defence making his presence felt.

Cesc Fabregas: 8: Stepped up after the sending off and was always trying, working his magic. Nicely slotted home the penalty.

Samir Nasri: 7.5: Tricked and dazzled with his feet and passing, the Frenchman proved a handful at times but did fail with the final ball on occasion.

Andrei Arshavin: 7: Some nice touches and passes here and there but overall didn't have quite the impact Arsenal expected/needed him to have.

Nicklas Bendtner: 7: Was forced off early in the second due to Arsene Wenger having to change his tactics. But was a vital presence in the first half, setting up Denilson well.

Substitutes

Abou Diaby: 8: A great substitution. Always a handful in both defence and attack. Almost makes you forget he's the reason they lost to Manchester United at the start of the season.

Bacary Sagna: N/A:

Eduardo Da Silva: N/A: Still looking a little slow.