Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has heaped praise on defender Nacho Monreal after the Spaniard put pen to paper on a new contract with the Gunners.

It was announced earlier today that Monreal had extended his previous deal, which was due to expire in summer 2017.

"He is a very important player at the club because he can play left-back and centre-back," Wenger told the club website. "He has the consistency in his performances that is requested at the top level.

"Overall, his attitude has been absolutely fantastic on a daily basis since he arrived here. He's 100% committed and I think as well he has always improved since he has arrived and has shown that in many big games as well.

"He's calm, focused and dedicated. He's well-accepted and loved by his partners. He has the modest approach of a player who wants to give his best to the team. Everybody senses that and that's why I think it's important for the club to have that stability."

Monreal joined Arsenal from Malaga three years ago and has gone on to make 115 appearances in all competitions for the Gunners.