Former Arsenal star Robert Pires has praised the club's young midfielder Matteo Guendouzi as a "warrior".

The 20-year-old, who joined the Gunners from Lorient last summer, impressed many with his energy and drive in the club's 2-2 North London derby draw with Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium.

Speaking to The Athletic, Pires, who was a member of Arsenal's 2004 'Invincibles' squad, said: "Matteo is a warrior. He had a fantastic match. He's a combative player and what I like about him is that he is consistent with that.

"He does his job, patrolling defensive midfield, winning the ball, tackling well, and then playing the ball quickly and simply.

"That's why he is an important player for Unai [Emery] and for Arsenal."

Guendouzi was called up to the senior French side for the first time today after Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba was forced to withdraw with an ankle injury.