Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini praises Francis Coquelin but is determined to start in FA Cup final against Aston Villa

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Arsenal's Mathieu Flamini has vowed to fight for his place ahead of Saturday's FA Cup final against Aston Villa.

The Frenchman has praised fellow defensive midfielder Francis Coquelin following the 24-year-old's emergence in the first-team this season but is determined to play in the Wembley showpiece.

While Flamini has not completed a full 90 minutes since December's victory over West Ham, Coquelin has made 22 Premier League appearances after returning early from his loan spell with Charlton.

Arsenal midfielder Mathieu Flamini (right) has vowed to fight for his place ahead of Saturday's FA Cup final

Flamini has praised the emergence of Francis Coquelin (left) and has welcomed the midfield rivalry

Speaking to reporters, Flamini said of the midfield rivalry: 'It's part of the game when you're playing in top teams. You have to fight to find your place, but it's part of the game.

'You have to accept the competition and I believe it makes you better because you fight in the morning in training to prove that you can play in the team. It makes you better.

'We all knew Francis was a great player and we're really pleased for him because he had the chance to prove it. He has been doing very well since coming into the team so I'm not surprised.'

The Gunners, who beat Hull City in last year's FA Cup final, are looking to become the second club to retain the trophy twice following back-to-back triumphs in 2002 and 2003.

Flamini celebrates last season's FA Cup triumph with Arsenal team-mate Olivier Giroud