CHERRIES star Nathan Ake expressed his respect towards former team-mate David Luiz – with the pair expected to face off at Arsenal on Sunday (2pm).

Luiz sealed an £8million move to the Emirates from Chelsea back in August, having previously played alongside Ake at Stamford Bridge.

Holland international Ake made his Premier league debut for Chelsea in the same squad as the Brazilian, coming off the bench as a 17-year-old during a 1-0 victory at Norwich under Rafael Benitez.

And he insisted he had learned a lot from the former PSG defender during his time in London.

“He is a very good player,” said former Feyenoord youngster Ake, when asked about his experiences featuring alongside 32-year-old Luiz.

“We played a few times together and he was a very good guy for me – he always used to help me, talk with me.

“He is very good with young players and is a great guy.

“When I was there, I was always looking at the way he played. He’s very good on the ball with both feet.

“He was always open for everyone, spoke with the young players, was always trying to help people and was a very happy and open guy.”

Cherries have lost six of their eight encounters with Arsenal since stepping up to the top flight.

Quizzed on the threat of the Gunners, Ake replied: “We know they can hurt you in behind as well as play to feet.

“We need to make sure we are prepared for them.”