Arsenal vs. Sunderland: 4 Things We Learned from Gunners Win

Arsenal moved back into the top half of the Premier League table after a nervy 2-1 victory over a very defensive Sunderland side.

The Gunners now sit in 10th position thanks to a magnificent two-goal salvo from inspirational captain Robin van Persie.

There were plenty of edgy moments, particularly in the first half when Sunderland managed to fashion some excellent chances.

But Arsenal remained resolute and continued to pour forward, playing some fast-paced and attractive attacking football.

Here are four things revealed in Arsenal's winning performance.

4. If He Can Stay Healthy, Tomas Rosicky Could Be the Best Fit for Fabregas Role

On today's evidence, Tomas Rosicky could be the best candidate to fill the crucial advanced midfield role vacated by Cesc Fabregas.

Rosicky was a surprise starter in this game, but the Czech international rewarded Arsene Wenger's faith with an industrious and inventive performance.

Rosicky's best asset is his willingness to always keep the ball moving forward.  As a result, the oft-injured schemer kept Arsenal's attacking momentum alive throughout the game.

Rosicky also demonstrated that he still has the quick feet and speed of thought to provide the Gunners with increased creativity.

In the short-term, the experienced playmaker may be a better option than waiting for youngster Aaron Ramsey to fully develop his game in such a vital position.

Unfortunately, Rosicky was subbed late on after picking up a slight knock.  Durability is always the key with Rosicky.

If he can find some consistent fitness, Rosicky can make a vital contribution to Arsenal's tactical style and structure.

3. Mikel Arteta Needs to Push Forward and Exert More Influence

Mikel Arteta had an efficient game today, but he lacked any real dynamism and flair. 

Arteta's technical proficiency and creativity are often wasted in the deep areas he frequently occupies on the pitch.

Arsenal need Arteta to exert more influence in the game and become more of a threat in attacking areas.  He has the vision and finishing ability to be a genuine goalscoring threat in Arsenal's team design.

More goals are needed from midfield if the club are going to avoid becoming too reliant on the efforts of van Persie and Arteta.

2. Gervinho Needs to Maintain His Efforts for Longer

Tricky Ivory Coast forward Gervinho continued to impress with his pace and movement, but he has yet to put together a complete performance.

Gervinho terrorised John O' Shea and Wes Brown in the first half but was worryingly absent during the second 45 minutes.

In the second half, Gervinho failed to involve himself in Arsenal's best attacking play and looked lightweight the few times he was in possession.

Gervinho has the ability to torment any defense and is a crucial outlet down the left flank for the Gunners.  But he needs to be as strong in the second half as he is in the first.

The former Lille star must also begin to add goals to his otherwise impressive skill set.

1. Robin Van Persie Is a True World Class Center Forward

Robin van Persie proved today that he deserves consideration as one of the finest strikers in all of world football.

His control, touch and strength in the challenge were the best they have been all season. 

The Dutchman's quick turn and clever footwork ravaged the Sunderland back-four all game long.

Van Persie delivered perhaps his most complete performance as Arsenal's lone striker.  His two goals were complemented by intelligent movement and efficient possession play.

After 22 goals last season and seven to begin this campaign, the debate about whether or not van Persie is a true striker should be firmly put to rest.

A 2-1 home victory over Sunderland may not be the kind of result to shout about from the rooftops, but it is an important win at a crucial time for Arsenal.

The Gunners stayed determined throughout, and in the last three league matches, their attacking guile seems to be slowly returning.

Another goalscorer needs to emerge to ease the burden on van Persie, and hard work must continue on the defensive issues.

A positive result away to Marseille is the next step in establishing a real resurgence for Wenger's team.