Hughes praises Arsenal

Ahead of tonight's game with Arsenal and Blackburn, Mark Hughes has given special praise to the Gunners for the way they have toughened up. Hughes also reserved special praise for Flamini who he feels has improved greatly.

"Arsenal have complained on occasions about the approach of opposition teams, but I've noted they take quite a lot of pride now in saying they can compete at any level," said the Welshman.

"Maybe being competitive isn't as bad as they have made it out to be in the past. I think they are reaping the benefit of that now, they are a side that can do it. Arsenal have a physical edge to their game.

"I've a lot of time for Flamini, he's been exceptional. He breaks things up and sets the play going."