Flamini - This spell could prove pivotal

Mathieu Flamini says the sheer volume of matches over the Christmas period means it could prove a pivotal spell in the title race.

Arsenal play three Premier League games in six days before facing a north London derby against Spurs in the FA Cup third round.

And the Frenchman thinks these fixtures could play a decisive role for those teams competing at the top.

“Everybody knows in December and January playing so many games means [your position] in the Premier League plays a big part," Flamini told Arsenal Player. "Of course it will be important to stay focused, to concentrate and make sure we go through this period as good as possible.

"You know over Christmas, that [playing on] Boxing Day is very important, it's part of the tradition here so of course we'll be playing. I will just bring my family to England and try to spend some time with them.

"I think for the players it [a winter break] would be good because it will help mentally and physically," he added. "But here the tradition is to play so it's not a problem. You have to respect tradition and be part of the beauty of the English league, where you play on Boxing Day."