Arsenal legend Tony Adams has praised Alex Song for his influence in midfield this season.

The former Arsenal ­captain believes that the contribution made by the Cameroon international has allowed Cesc Fabregas to blossom into his most productive spell of form since he came to the club.

Song has been given a new role as the minder for the back four - and he's thrived.

"There are times this ­season when I have said, 'Thank God for Alex Song'," said Adams. "It is a big plus for Arsenal that he is back from Africa.

"OK, so he didn't get back until midweek but that should give him plenty of recovery time. Arsenal need him - he has been their player of the season."