Arsenal 2-0 Wigan:Arsenal left it late to beat a stubborn Wigan team as new Latics manager Steve Bruce watched on from the Emirates Stadium stands today.

The Gunners put points on the goal difference lead they held at the top of the Barclays Premier League this morning. Manchester United went down 1-0 at Bolton.

For large spells, though, the Gunners - now unbeaten for 28 consecutive matches - had been frustrated by a determined Wigan side, who will have Bruce in charge from Monday.

Eventually, Arsenal made the breakthrough when, with just seven minutes left, captain William Gallas headed in at the near post.

Czech winger Tomas Rosicky made sure of the result with a well-taken goal two minutes later.

Victory came at a cost though, as Theo Walcott was carried off on a stretcher after a hefty challenge from Wigan's England striker Emile Heskey.

With Cesc Fabregas suspended, Mathieu Flamini injured and Gilberto fatigued following international duty in South America, manager Arsene Wenger was forced into changes.

Brazilian youngster Denilson and Lassana Diarra came into central midfield, while England Under-21 star Walcott was handed a rare start ahead of Croatia striker Eduardo.