Wenger`s belief key to Arsenal form, says Flamini

London: Mathieu Flamini insists Arsene Wenger`s belief in the players has been key to Arsenal`s strong form this season.

The midfielder believes the trust within the squad has been pivotal this season and admits his defensive work may be overshadowed by performances from his attacking team-mates After losing to Aston Villa on the opening day of the season, Arsenal have secured five consecutive wins in the Premier League and could move back to the top of the table with at least a draw against West Brom on Sunday. "Many people were talking outside of the club but from the inside we knew we had a lot of qualities," Flamini told the club`s official website. "We had a difficult period but the manager never changed his philosophy and believed very strongly in this team. I’m really happy he has proved what he did was the right thing. "We are trusting each other. This is the result of a lot of work. Trust is very important. The main thing is to have quality in the team but after that you need to find team spirit." Flamini believes his midfield role at Arsenal is key to the club`s defensive solidity but admits his performances could be eclipsed by the likes of Mesut Ozil and Olivier Giroud in the attacking third. "I am not a striker, I am a defensive midfielder, protecting the defence, trying to find the best balance in the team between the defence and attack," Flamini continued. "That’s very important. For a team to be strong defensively makes all the difference. If you want to win titles, if you want to travel anywhere, you have to be strong defensively. With the qualities we have in the team I am sure we will score goals anywhere. "Defensive work is maybe a bit more difficult to see than when you score or make an assist. But it’s very important as part of the balance of the team. Winning games is a quality of effort. It’s teamwork." Goal.com