Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has declared that Mikel Arteta's focus from the penalty spot is a sign of the Spaniard's strong character.

Arteta missed a last-minute spot kick against Fulham last month but has netted three penalties in the last fortnight to help the Gunners climb the table.

Wenger believes that Arteta's willingness to return to penalty duties after the Fulham miss is a sign of his importance to the team.

He told the club's official website: "It takes character [to score three penalties in a row]. I am glad he shows that.

"You heard so many comments when he missed that one against Fulham saying 'why does he take the penalties?', but he has everyone on board now. That is the only way you can do it: show everyone that you have the character and the quality.

"It is important after [a player misses] that you test the desire to do it again. If they are a little bit on the back foot then you don't insist at all. It is like when you have a car accident. Do you not drive again your whole life or do you drive again straightaway? It is about getting it out of your system."

The Gunners vice-captain has made 23 appearances this season, scoring four times including a late winner at home to Queens Park Rangers.