Mathieu Flamini was Arsenal's unlikely hero as the French midfielder's double strike sealed a 2-1 win over bitter rivals Tottenham in the League Cup third round on Wednesday.
Flamini was making his first appearance of the season after coming close to leaving the club in the last transfer window and he seized a rare opportunity to remind Gunners boss Arsene Wenger of his quality with a brilliant second half winner at White Hart Lane.
The 31-year-old, so often the butt of Arsenal fans' criticism in the past, had already celebrated his return by putting Wenger's side ahead in the first half before a Calum Chambers own goal after the break drew Tottenham level.
But it was Flamini's second goal that stole the show as he lashed a sumptuous volley into the bottom corner from 20 yards to settle the first north London derby of the season.
Flamini's heroics provided a much-needed morale boost for Arsenal, ensuring they avoided losing three consecutive matches in all competitions for the first time since April 2010.
"It was a very intense game. We responded very well physically and mentally and when we stay with 11 players we can win games," Wenger said.
"I had hope when Flamini lined up his second goal because he watched the ball well, decided what he wanted to do and he did it with belief."
Flamini added: "I don't have any problems with anyone at the club.
"But it is never easy when you don't play every game. I had a point to prove."
After a slow start, Arsenal gradually seized the initiative with some incisive breaks, culminating in the opening goal in the 26th minute.
With Tottenham's defenders backing off as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain took possession, the Arsenal midfielder was able to unleash a powerful low strike that Michel Vorm could only parry weakly out to Flamini, who gratefully accepted the gift as he lashed into the roof of the net.
