Arsene Wenger heaped praise on departing Arsenal midfielders Tomas Rosicky and Mikel Arteta on Sunday.

The pair of veterans have seen their respective careers with the Gunners ended following the final game of the 2015/16 Premier League season and Wenger admits it is a shame to see them go.

"I think Tomas Rosicky is an incredible football player and highly respected in our dressing room," said Wenger after the 4-0 win over Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium.

"It was a very sad day for me yesterday not to pick him in my squad because it was something at stake.

"We lose him, we lose Arteta, two leaders in the dressing room and I am convinced that in the bad periods they had a positive influence in the squad and we will miss them next season.

"I would like to thank them for what they have done for us and wish them well."

35-year-old Czech Republic international Rosicky has been with Arsenal since 2006 while 34-year-old club captain Arteta has been with the club since 2011.