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Wenger sweats on Flamini
07/02/2008 14:13 - (SA)
London - Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini has played down the extent of an injury he suffered on international duty with France this week, which is likely to intensify manager Arsene Wenger's dislike of international friendlies.
Flamini, who has emerged as a key player for the revitalised Gunners this season, was substituted after 15 minutes of a France 'A' side's goalless draw with the DR Congo in Spain on Tuesday.
But he is optimistic of being ready to play in the Premiership leaders' clash with Blackburn at the Emirates on Monday.
"It is just a little tight spot behind the right thigh," Flamini said. "It is nothing serious, I hope I'll be ready for Blackburn."
Even if Flamini is fine, the scare is unlikely to have helped Wenger's often testy relationship with France coach Raymond Domenech, with whom he has clashed in the past over the timing of internationals.
Last week the Arsenal boss described this week's round of friendlies as "one you could do without," adding: "I think that if you did a poll of all the clubs involved in the Champions League I wouldn't be surprised if 100% of them said let's get rid of it."
Arsenal have been without Dutch striker Robin van Persie for most of this season because of a knee injury he suffered while away with the Netherlands.
- AFP
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