AW: "Mathieu Has a Huge Desire..."

Le Boss has revealed that he is not overly concerned by Gilberto's fitness ahead of our trip to V*lla Park this weekend, as he believes young Mat Flamini is a more than capable deputy...

"He is one of the players who is improving very well but people forget he is only 21 and to play central midfield at that age at this level is very difficult," said AW.

"Mathieu has a huge desire and is very dynamic. His game is more suited to a bigger pitch which we will have next season at our new stadium because of his great fitness.

"He is more a mobile player than an impact player which Vieira was when he was here. He would benefit from the pitch being 10 yards longer and wider."