Mathieu Flamini was revelling in his heroics after inspiring Arsenal to a North London derby win over Tottenham.

The French midfielder scored a timely brace as the Gunners edged Spurs 2-1 in the third round of the Capital One Cup at White Hart Lane on Wednesday night.

It was only Flamini's first start of the season and he feels he was able to prove a few critics wrong with his match-winning performance after being heavily linked with a Gunners exit during the summer transfer window.

"I'm very happy for the team because it was a difficult and tough game," he said.

"Personally I am happy because I scored two goals. I have heard many things in the press, many people have been talking about me but I have proved everyone wrong.

"I've been working hard and I was ready for the game."

Regarding what the press were writing, former AC Milan man Flamini added: "I don't read a lot of it but I've never had any problems with anyone at the club.

"I've been here for a long time and I'm a professional on and off the pitch. I want to congratulate the team, everyone gave 100 per cent and it's never easy when you don't play games, but Arsenal played very well."

Flamini added further: "I had a point to prove because I hadn't played for a while but I'd been working hard and it was my game [against Tottenham], but my team-mates did a great job too."