ARSENE WENGER hailed the mental strength of his Arsenal side after they went top of the Premier League last night – but moved to diffuse a row over William Gallas’ controversial tackle which left Mark Davies with a suspected broken ankle.

Owen Coyle’s men – beaten 2-0 by the Gunners on Sunday – took a shock lead after seven minutes through Gary Cahill, and Matthew Taylor then doubled the advantage from the penalty spot.

However, Wenger’s youngsters showed the character of champions to rally before half-time through Tomas Rosicky’s strike.

Captain Cesc Fabregas netted a controversial equaliser on 52 minutes, after Gallas had appeared to foul Davies in the build-up, and then Thomas Vermaelen completed the comeback.

Andrey Arshavin scored a fourth to take the Gunners top on goals scored, and Wenger said: ‘‘Chelsea have a game in hand, but it is good.

‘‘We had two difficult games against Bolton with a new manager, two cup games almost, and our mental and physical strength was tested again tonight.

‘‘We are certainly much more physically resistant.”

Gallas appeared to catch Davies on the ankle as the pair went for a 50/50 ball, and Wenger said: ‘‘I am sorry if the tackle was not good, and I apologise.

‘‘I am sorry if it is a foul, but it didn’t look dirty from outside.’’