Vermaelen heads winner as Arsenal climb to third

Arsenal moved up to third in the Premier League as Thomas Vermaelen’s early header at Everton earned Arsene Wenger’s men a sixth successive top-flight victory last night.

The Gunners made a strong start and went in front in the eighth minute when Vermaelen converted Robin van Persie’s corner.

The Toffees got a grip on proceedings and had what appeared to be a legitimate goal chalked off in the 31st minute when the flag was raised against Royston Drenthe, but the visitors held on to secure a win that sees them leapfrog Tottenham, who drew 1-1 with Stoke.