Brad Freidel
Freidel chose to move to Tottenham over Liverpool. REUTERS

Martin Keown has lauded the performance of Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky and implored Arsene Wenger's side to maintain the same drive and energy in their upcoming matches if they hope to qualify for the Champions League.

A Rosicky-inspired Arsenal came from two goals down to beat Tottenham 5-2 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday and Keown believes the Czech international is playing some of the best football of his career.

"That is the best I have seen Tomas Rosicky play for Arsenal. He's been a spectator this season until now but he played with so much drive and purpose," Keown told the Daily Mail.

"For his goal he made a run he would never have normally, darting into the box. He looked to play decisive passes, was tenacious in the tackle and looked like the player Arsenal signed in 2006. An all-action performance."

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been the subject of increased scrutiny in recent weeks in the wake of damaging defeats to AC Milan in the Champions League and an FA Cup exit at the hands of Sunderland.

But Keown believes Sunday's performance could signal a turning point for the beleaguered manager and contends Arsenal's performance demonstrates the players are committed to the Frenchman's reign.

"Arsene Wenger has been under a lot of pressure after defeats by AC Milan and Sunderland and this display looked like the reaction of players who knew that," the former Arsenal defender said.

"This was bigger than fighting for trophies - they thought they were playing to keep their boss in a job. They want him to stay. Spurs fans also want Redknapp to stay but he looked shell-shocked at his side's inability to match Arsenal.

"This time last year, Arsenal put in a similarly excellent performance to defeat Barcelona in the Champions League but faded afterwards. There was that high tempo of passing from the start again against Spurs, but where have performances like that been in the meantime?

"They have to find that drive and energy in the matches that are coming up if they want to finish fourth. You can't just do that against Tottenham."