Arsene Wenger praises Mathieu Flamini’s impact at Arsenal

Arsene Wenger has singled out Mathieu Flamini for special praise for the leadership qualities he has displayed since his return to Arsenal.

The French midfielder moved back to Emirates Stadium on a free transfer last summer and has played an important part in Wenger’s first-team, making 14 Premier League starts and scoring one goal.

His work-rate and his balance gives us better security

Mathieu Flamini

And the Gunners boss believes that the 30-year-old’s vocal attitude has helped organise the north London side’s midfield.

“That is very important,” Wenger said. “It’s vital and when you’re 21, 22, you’re not in a position to do it with your partners.

“But when you are 30, you feel that you have gone through a lot and you are now in a position where you can do that. You want that from your players.

“His work-rate and his balance gives us better security. He does the work that people don’t always see. It’s not because people don’t see it that it’s not important.

“[He provides] that part of important work in the team that stabilises the team and gives them security to express.”