It's been six months since French midfielder Mathieu Flamini has left Arsenal for AC Milan, but he still remembers the Gunners fondly.

Flamini told UK newspaper Daily Mail: "Arsenal are still in my heart. Whenever I find the time, I search all the info about the club and my former team-mates. .... Before joining AC Milan, I felt very disappointed when I could not renew my contract with Arsenal. I am glad to be part of a top club like AC Milan now, but I wanted to keep on playing for the Gunners. I have improved so much both technically and personality-wise during my four seasons at Arsenal".

Flamini added: "I believe that the most important thing for any football club is unity and the will to give everything for the team. That's how it was at Arsenal last season; I had a strong tie with my team-mates, especially with Hleb, Fabregas and Diaby. We knew how to help each other out. .... Coach Arsene Wenger is a very important figure at Arsenal and it is essential to follow his directives and to believe in him. He has a lot of influence on the players. He is always able to get the best out of his players, knowing how to motivate them. .... When playing in England, the main thing is winning; it's like a battle. It is never easy to play in the Premier League because it has a very physical style which requires a lot of resiliance and each team has capable players. .... I have recently spoke with Fabregas. He is very pleased to be the new Arsenal captain. This is a big step forward for his football career and he feels ready for such a responsibility".