Flamini says he understands the frustrations of Arsenal fans as he counts himself as a supporter himself.

The Frenchman came off the bench for Crystal Palace against his old club as they coasted to a 3-0 victory that condemned the Gunners to a fourth consecutive league defeat on the road.

Speaking after the game, Flamini, who left the Emirates as a free agent for a second time last summer, urged his former teammates not to give up on the season just yet.

“I understand also the frustration of the fans because they are such a big club and they want their team winning and it is not an easy situation.

“It is difficult for me to comment from the outside what is happening with Arsenal. Results are not what they want, that is for sure. But they have a lot of quality.

“It is painful because I am still an Arsenal fan. I spent many years over there so my heart is white and red.

“I really hope they will make it because they deserve to be in the Champions League. It is such an amazing club. The season is not finished. There are many games ahead. I believe they can do it. It is up to them.

“I saw Arsene. Of course everyone is disappointed. When you are a big club you want to win every game, so that is normal.”