Arsenal Vs Aston Villa: 5 Things We Learned

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2. Mathieu Flamini is quietly growing into his role

I want Francis Coquelin back just as much as everyone else. But we have to make due with what we have at the moment. Thanks to Mathieu Flamini, ‘making due’ is becoming a lot easier.

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The only thing I find myself asking Flamini to do is to not completely flub up. He is not going to be as effective as Coquelin. The next best thing is to just hold steady and don’t do anything crazy. Flamini has been doing that incredibly well. Since taking over for Coquelin, Flamini has not been a liability in any match. He has actually been very effective. Against Norwich he was one of the few Gunners to have a good game, including throwing up a 97% pass completion.

He is averaging over two tackles and two interceptions a game since taking over first-team duties and you have to be pleased with that. They have not been the most dastardly opponents, but look at what he did against Olympiakos as well. Two tackles, a team-high five interceptions, three clearances and three aerials won. That is a really good day at the office.

Flamini is not going to overtake Coquelin or anything crazy like that. But think about how long it can take to settle into first-team duties. Flamini has seamlessly assumed the same duties from Coquelin and there has been very little crying for Coquelin’s imminent return.

And finally, a very important lesson that I have been preaching for awhile.

Next: 1. Aaron Ramsey