Flamini sad at Emirates events

Flamini: Not happy

Mathieu Flamini has revealed his deep concern over the recent turbulent times at Arsenal.

The French midfielder spent four years as a Gunner before joining AC Milan on a free transfer in the summer.

But the 24-year-old admits he is 'still a red' in his heart and he is upset by what has happened at the Emirates Stadium in recent weeks.

The Gunners have got off to an indifferent start to the campaign - losing five games to sit in fifth in the league.

And William Gallas has been stripped of the captaincy after criticising his team-mates in public, with Cesc Fabregas taking over the mantel.

Flamini said: "I am not very happy when I see what is going on with the Arsenal team.

"I'm still an Arsenal fan because I played there for four years. I am still red in my heart.

Unity

"The most important thing is to have unity and to have a good spirit to keep going. Last year the Arsenal spirit was amazing. From the back to the front everybody fought for each other all over the pitch.

"I played in midfield with Cesc Fabregas, Alex Hleb and Tomas Rosicky and we were always talking and helping each other. When you fight for each other you win games.

"Arsene Wenger is very important and it is very important to trust him because he has achieved great things at the club but although the manager is always a big influence in the dressing room it is up to the players to get together and work hard for each other.

"When you play in England the most important thing is to win the battle. It is never easy to play in the Premier League because it is physical and every team has strong players."

He added: "I think Gallas said what he did because he was trying to get a reaction from his team-mates.

Never easy

"It is never easy because in this situation you do not know what to do.

"I have not spoken with William in the last few days so I cannot say if he will leave but is it not going to be easy for him to stay.

"In this situation I do not know if I would want to stay but I believe William did not set out to cause problems and that he loved being captain.

"I spoke with Cesc and he is very happy to be given the captaincy. This is very important for him and he feels he is ready to take on the extra responsibility.

"I'm sure he will continue to play as well as he always has and his game may even improve."