Arsene Wenger paid tribute to Mathieu Flamini as the midfielder inspired his side to a 3-0 victory over Newcastle.
Gunners boss keen for midfielder to extend deal
Arsene Wenger paid tribute to Mathieu Flamini as the midfielder inspired his side to a 3-0 victory over Newcastle.
Flamini lashed home a stunning 25-yard strike to kill off any hopes of a Newcastle comeback after earlier setting up Emmanuel Adebayor for the opener with a precision cross.
Wenger is keen to agree an improved contract with a player who has emerged as an essential member of his first XI this season.
Composure
He told
Sky Sports: "He's growing from game to game and getting stronger.
"He scored a great goal, but I like the time he took and the composure he showed on the cross for Adebayor.
"We want him to stay, he wants to stay, it's a question of patience and good positive discussions."
Technically
The Gunners boss admitted his team had to be patient against an organised Magpies side, who suffered their second 3-0 defeat at Emirates Stadium in the space of four days.
The Frenchman said: "We needed time and patience to kill the game off at the right time. They defended very well and we didn't create too many chances.
"We were more comfortable once we scored the first goal, it allowed us to control the game technically. There were three great goals.
"Newcastle worked very hard in both games, they have a great spirit."
