Arsenal defender David Luiz is proud to have defied his critics after their stunning FA Cup semifinal win over Manchester City.

The 33-year-old arguably justified his extension with a monumental display in a potentially season-defining victory to hand City their first domestic Cup defeat in two-and-a-half years.

Asked about the criticism Arsenal faced the last time they faced City, Luiz told BT Sport: "A lot of criticism of me, no? I think it's part of football.

"I understood during my career that football is about surviving. Every day you're going to support your team and other people will support different teams. It's about surviving. It's what I did.

"I worked hard every day after my mistakes. I took the blame - I was mature enough to understand that. I was also humble [enough] to work more for the team.

"We have a final to play this season and we're going to try win a title for this club because I always say this club deserves to shine again."