Arsene Wenger hailed Emmanuel Eboue after the Cote d'Lvoire international inspired Arsenal back into the Premier League title race.

Eboue has endured a difficult time at the Emirates Stadium following his move from Beveren in 2005.

He has complained he has often been played out of position and even suffered the humiliation of being substituted against Wigan in December 2008, despite only having come on as a substitute himself.

But during the past 12 months, the 26-year-old has worked hard to fight his way back into the Arsenal team.

And the fact he was treated to a standing ovation from the home supporters in Saturday's 2-0 victory over Sunderland, which left the Gunners six points behind leaders Chelsea and just two points away from second-placed Manchester United, is testament to his recent improvement.

Wenger said: "Eboue is a good example of how you can always change people's opinions with the work you do on the pitch. The people booed him a year ago and now they love him. It is because of his hard work. I believe he prefers to play at rightback, I see him there. I also like him in midfield - he is not bad there at all."