Mathieu Flamini's performance at the San Siro came as no surprise to Arsenal fans all over the globe. The man has come of age this season, with consistent world-class performances, and a couple of goals to go along with them (lest we forget that wonder-strike against Newcastle).

However, playing at the San Siro, Flamini reminded me of a man who graced that pitch with such elegance, a player whose every move Rossoneri fans used to cheer for years. This man, of course, was the legendary Demetrio Albertini, an elegant midfielder, with a great touch and the willingness to never give up.

Flamini is not insanely talented like Cesc Fabregas, nor does he have the skill of flair players such as Kaka, Andrea Pirlo or the ever-emerging Samir Nasri. But what sets him apart is his desire to never give up.

His workrate is phenomenal, sometimes superhuman. He will, without a doubt, come off the pitch caked and soaked in sweat, as if he has spent his day under a perpetual shower. Don't get me wrong, all the other Arsenal players also work hard, but Flamini is somewhat of a legend in the making in our eyes. He will not be a legend in the same class as a Thierry Henry or a Fabregas, but his sheer pride and never-say-die attitude for the badge brings a tear to the eye of the most ardent of Arsenal fans.

What a midfield partnership! Flamini, the man behind all the dirty work, and Fabregas, the orchestrator of the greatest game on Earth!

Flamini is, in my opinon, a player who has come through all sorts of obstacles to warrant a starting place in the side. When he came, the irreplaceable Patrick Vieira and Gilberto Silva stood in his way. After that, Gilberto remained and had an outstanding season last year. How could one contemplate disposing of the loveable World Cup winner and the Brazilian national captain?