Flamini: Wenger wanted me at left-back

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Date	Time	C	Opponent	F	A	R	S
12 Nov	4:00 PM	P	Liverpool (H)	3	0	Win

After spending most of last season as an emergency left-back, Frenchman Mathieu Flamini wants a return to his natural midfield role.

The former Marseilles player scored the opening goal in the 3-0 demolition of Liverpool, a match where manager Arsène Wenger slotted him beside Gilberto.

Flamini also revealed that Wenger wanted him to stay at left-back during the start of the season, a short-term replacement perhaps, for the departing Ashley Cole.

Flamini said: "The boss and I spoke about that because at the start of the season the manager wanted me to play at left back - but I told him I was more comfortable in the centre of midfield.

"I played left back last year, but wanted to go back into the middle to show everybody it was possible for me to play there.

"Now I want to play there all the time because it is my natural position.

"Everybody knows I have the capacity to play at left back, but now I want to come back in the midfield."

The Frenchman also admitted that he was wrong in celebrating his goal with the home support.

Flamini added: "I knew it was forbidden, but I did not think about that because I was so happy I just went to see the fans and jumped in.

"However, you always have to respect the rules."

User Comments

arsenalfan

Posted on 14 Nov, 2006 at 10:56 PM - Reply

Proven himself very well. In view of the situation early this season, it's probable that AW needed him at left back so that Gallas could take the centreback slot.

GoodOldArsenal

Posted on 14 Nov, 2006 at 01:24 PM - Reply

The rule about celebrating with the home fans is quite ridiculous in my opinion. Why can't a player share his passion with the home support?

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