Wenger's side were staring at the possibility of losing a Premier League match for the first time since the opening day of the season when Claudio Yacob put Steve Clarke's charges ahead shortly before half-time.

But England international Wilshere hit a drilled 20-yard effort that deflected into the goal via Jonas Olsson's shin.

It capped a perfect response from the 21-year-old, who was heavily criticised after being pictured smoking outside a London nightclub.

Manager Wenger had warned the midfielder about his behaviour before the game but decided to name him in his starting XI on Sunday.

And Wilshere is keen to put the incident behind him and help Arsenal remain at the summit of England's top flight.

Speaking to the club's official website, Wilshere said: "I made a mistake (by smoking). Players make mistakes, I'm not a smoker.

"I spoke with the boss, he asked me what happened and I explained to him and we sorted it out. He put me in the team and hopefully I repaid him."

Wilshere's goal was his first in the league for nearly three years and was delighted to help Arsenal return to the top ahead of the international break.

"I've played a lot of games and sometimes I get into the positions and miss but it was nice to get one today," he added.

"I had a chance just before where I put it over, I didn't really see it to be honest. I was lucky to get into another position and it was a good strike.

"It was a big point. You don't want to be going into the international break after a loss and you have time to think about it. It was a good point and it's a tough place to come."