Tomas Rosicky insists Arsenal do not need to go outside the club to strengthen their midfield.

The crocked playmaker has backed Abou Diaby to cover the absence of Mathieu Flamini after his move to AC Milan this summer.

"I don't know if the coach will bring someone in," said Rosicky.

"I think that Diaby will be given a big chance to play often in Flamini's position. He was playing on the left when I was injured, but he is more a centre midfielder, the same type like Patrick Vieira.

"I expect a lot from him as I know from training that it is difficult to play against him. He has long legs and really is very similar to Vieira. In my opinion, he is able to do very well."