Mathieu Flamini came on as a half-time substitute in the Gunners’ draw against Spurs

Published: 12 November, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

MATHIEU Flamini says he was determined to help turn around Sunday’s north London derby for the Arsenal fans – and preserve his unbeaten league record in the process. 

The French midfielder has never lost a Premier League game at the Emirates Stadium during his two spells with the club. He came on as a half-time substitute at the weekend with the Gunners trailing Tottenham 1-0, and played a key role as they came back to secure a 1-1 draw. 

While he was relieved not to lose, Flamini says Arsenal created enough chances to have claimed all three points. 

“Of course, we are disappointed because it was an important game for us. It was a derby and you want to win it,” he told Arsenal Player.

“But we came back after trailing 1-0 at half time, so we will take the draw. We had plenty of opportunities but unfortunately we didn’t score a second goal. 

“It was important not to lose these games, so we will take this point. 

“It is a special game for me against Spurs,” Flamini added. “There is a lot of passion. I know what it means to play against them, for the fans, and, of course, it was important for me, too.

“I have never lost a Premier League game at the Emirates, and believe me, you do not want it to start against Spurs.” .