[theo kawala]

Arsène Wenger is delighted at the way William Gallas has settled into the Arsenal side.

The 29-year-old centre back moved to Emirates Stadium in part exchange for Ashley Cole on transfer deadline day. His arrival has coincided with an upturn in Arsenal's form. They have amassed four wins and a draw in his five matches, conceding just two goals - and one of those was a meaningless last-minute effort at Hamburg.

"It looks to me like red and white suits him very well," joked Wenger ahead of Saturday's game at Charlton. "Maybe it has been a benefit of the fact that he knows a few players here and he has integrated very well.

"He gives us that little bit extra; a little bit more experience at the back. I feel we are strong but have lacked something there.

"I think he is one of the world's best. He's a winner and he lets his performances talk for him because that's the best way to do things. Once you oblige to talk about how good you are you are in the wrong situation.

"He has made a big step forward in the last two years at Chelsea and, for a central defender, he is getting to the age where he can be at the top."