Flamini reveals priorities

Flamini: Focused on festive period

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Mathieu Flamini insists he is focused on Arsenal's forthcoming fixtures rather than his soon to expire contract.

The France international was keen to leave the North Londoners at the end of last season after finding regular appearances in his favoured position of central midfield hard to come by.

However, the 23-year-old chose to stay with The Gunners, and this campaign he has demonstrated his quality in forming an impressive partnership with Cesc Fabregas.

Reports have suggested Arsenal are keen to reward Flamini with a new five-year deal, and while he admits talks have been held, the tenacious midfielder says he is focused on his side's hectic festive schedule.

"I have been talking a bit with the club," he said.

Happy

"I am happy here, but I am a free agent in January. We have so many games in December, so it is very difficult to be concentrated on this kind of thing as we are playing every three days.

"I am just focused on every game and for the contract, we will see a bit later."

Flamini went on to laud his and Fabregas' partnership in the heart of Arsenal's midfield.

"Cesc is a bit more offensive than me and I have more of a defensive role, so we complement each other well," he added.

"We are talking a lot on the pitch, and that is making the difference.

"The midfield is the engine of the team. If you win the battle in the midfield, that can make the difference at the end of the game."