Arsenal

GUNNERS NOT EXPECTING TAKEOVER

2007-09-30T10:57:00.001-07:00

Arsenal managing director Keith Edelman has insisted Alisher Usmanov does not want to take over the club.

Chairman Peter Hill-Wood and Edelman met Farhad Moshiri - joint owner with the Russian billionaire of Red and White Holdings which now owns 23% of the club - on Friday in what was termed a "constructive" get together.

But coming less than a week after the Gunners announced hugely impressive financial results, with massive leaps in turnover and profit, Edelman remains adamant that Usmanov merely sees his shares in the north Londoners as a good piece of business.

"He said to us he believes we are a very good long-term investment," Edelman told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek.

"He did not want to take the club over and said he wants to regard it as an investment and he thought he was going to make a lot of money out of it.

"His advisors assured us that Mr Usmanov is an Arsenal fan, loves the club and it's a shareholding. Now we'll have to wait and see what happens over time."

He added: "As far as the board is concerned, we don't believe we are in any danger of being taken over, it's business as usual and we believe we'll be running this club for many years to come.

"I don't think he will control Arsenal Football Club, and I don't think he wants to."

Following Arsenal's stunning financial results, Edelman believes Usmanov might be questioning the wisdom of changing the current regime.

"Perhaps he's taking a look down the road at another club in London and seeing that the way we're running our club is good for his investment to produce good returns on the money he's put in the club," he said.

"Possibly that's the reason he doesn't want to stop us running the club and operating it.

"If you look at Chelsea and look at Arsenal, we are running our club in terms of our revenues and our profits, we're running it from generated cash, without people having to put extra money in every year, and we're running it very profitably.

"If you're investing in a club you want to make a return on your investment."

Edelman added: "A lot of clubs look attractive because they're big world brands, but if you're investing and you want to see a return on your money then you want it to be profitable.

SILVA GETS ARSENAL ARMBAND

2007-08-09T04:13:00.000-07:00

Brazil midfielder Gilberto Silva has been officially appointed as the new Arsenal captain.

The 30-year-old succeeds the departed Thierry Henry in the role and was vice captain last season, with him often leading the team as Henry spent much of the campaign on the sidelines through injury.

Experienced defenders William Gallas and Ivory Coast's Kolo Toure have been handed the joint role of vice-captain.

Gallas will lead the side out for Sunday's Premier League opener against Fulham with Silva being absent from the team due to his involvement in the Copa America.

Gilberto, who has been linked with Juventus, has spent five years with the Gunners after joining from Atletico Mineiro.

BRUCE CHASES MIDO BUT NOT FLAMINI

2007-08-09T04:12:00.000-07:00

Steve Bruce has revived his interest in Tottenham striker Mido, but has ruled out Mathieu Flamini joining Birmingham.

Blues had been thought to have ended any interest in Mido after contract negotiations stalled between the two parties last month.

Spurs had given Birmingham permission to talk to the Egyptian international after a £6million deal was agreed.

Since his move to St Andrews fell through, Sunderland and Fulham have been tipped to launch a bid to sign Mido.

But Bruce has returned for the 24-year-old and he is still hopeful of bringing the front-man in before the transfer window closes.

"To be fair to the player it was never really about personal terms, it was issues over lengths of contracts and one or two other things," Bruce told Sky Sports News.

"Those seem to have been ironed out so, if talks are ongoing again, then great.

"We made the best offer we possibly can to the player. We will see what happens. We will probably have to go through the rigmarole again on the possible transfer.

"We have to negotiate with Spurs but that seems to be ongoing.

"With any deal you would like the player to make his mind up but it was never about personal terms. I have to put that on the record.

"It will be a permanent transfer if it happens. That's where it got clouded initially.

GUNNERS SHOWING RIGHT SIGNS - WENGER

2007-07-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger believes Arsenal's pre-season form has shown they can become a force to be reckoned with again.

The Gunners got their hands on their first piece of silverware since lifting the FA Cup in 2005 when Sunday's victory over Inter Milan saw them finish top in the four-team Emirates Cup.

A fine goal from fit-again Robin van Persie settled matters 2-1 against the Italians late on to cap a weekend of promising performances following their training camp in Austria.

Wenger will now prepare his squad for the trip to Holland and the Amsterdam Tournament.

With the likes of Theo Walcott, Tomas Rosicky and Emmanuel Adebayor all set to feature later this week, the Arsenal boss will be able to fine-tune his plans for the Barclays Premier League opener against Fulham on August 12.

By then, the club hope to have finally received a work permit from the Home Office for summer signing Eduardo da Silva. The Brazil-born Croatian international has an appeal on Thursday.

Wenger used the games against Paris St Germain and Inter to experiment with formations and personnel.

The Gunners boss was more than happy with the results.

"What I have learned is that the team loves to play together," he said.

"It has also shown that the spirit in the side is absolutely fantastic.

"This victory - we do not class it as a trophy - builds up the belief of the team, which was needed because we did not have the greatest season last season confidence wise.

"It shows we can do well."

Wenger, though, once again found himself fielding questions about off-field matters.

The French coach was photographed with former Arsenal vice-chairman Dein - who left the club last season following "irreconcilable differences" with the board - after the pair had dinner together in London last week.

Wenger, however, insisted it was 'simply' a meeting between two friends and that topics exchanged certainly did not include a potential buy-out of the club by American shareholder Stan Kroenke.

WENGER DAMPENS KROENKE THEORY

2007-07-30T00:00:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger maintains his close friendship with David Dein plays no part in the role he holds as manager at Arsenal.

The Gunners boss found himself fielding questions about off-the-field matters following this afternoon's conclusion of the Emirates Cup, which finished with a 2-1 win over Inter Milan for the hosts to claim the trophy.

Wenger was photographed with former Arsenal vice-chairman Dein - who left the club last season following "irreconcilable differences" with the board - after the pair had dinner together in London last week"

The Frenchman, however, insisted it was "simply" a meeting between two friends and that topics exchanged certainly did not include a potential buy-out of the club by American shareholder Stan Kroenke.

"The story is as simple as ever," Wenger insisted.

"I've been friends with David Dein before I was at Arsenal. I was friends with him during his stay here and I'm still friends since he's departed. It's as simple as that.

"I said the other day, I know I have a responsibility here and I want to stand up for it.

"My friendship with David is something different.

"For a long period it was mixed with the life of the club, but it is no longer mixed with that."

Wenger maintained: "We didn't discuss the future at Arsenal.

"He still asked me how it was going at Arsenal, how is the team going? I have no influence in the shareholders.

"I've never been a shareholder. I'm an employee who is responsible for the technical side of the club."

Wenger used this weekend's tournament - which also included Paris Saint Germain and Valencia - to experiment with team selection.

This afternoon's game with the Serie A champions looked to be heading for a draw before Robin van Persie fired in a brilliant winner, dragging the ball back inside his marker with some dazzling footwork.

FISZMAN FIRM OVER GUNNERS STAKE

2007-07-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

Arsenal's biggest shareholder Danny Fiszman has once again insisted he has "no intention" of selling his stake in the club.

With speculation mounting that billionaire businessman Stan Kroenke is set to launch a takeover bid at Emirates stadium, Fiszman issued a statement committing himself to hanging on to his 24.11% share.

The wealthy diamond dealer joined his fellow board members in April in entering into an agreement not to dispose of their shares for at least a year.

And in a statement issued today on Arsenal.com, he said: "I have no intention of selling my shares in Arsenal for the foreseeable future.

"There are exciting times ahead with the team showing so much promise, we are energised by what the future holds.

"I hope now that my position is absolutely clear."

He added: "Over the past few months there has been much ill-informed speculation about my shareholding in Arsenal. I publicly stated my position back in April.

"I have been a member of the board for 15 years now.

"The club has experienced many successes both on and off the pitch in that time and being part of the Arsenal family is something that is not only in my mind but also in my heart.

"I, together with the rest of the board take great pride in the fact that Emirates Stadium is our home and great pleasure in the exciting, entertaining football that the team plays.

"The board is a strong unit; we are the custodians of this club."

FREDDIE READY TO JOIN HAMMERS - REPORT

2007-07-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

West Ham have announced a 2pm press conference today, with reports claiming they will unveil Freddie Ljungberg as their fifth summer signing.

Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet quotes Hammers chairman Eggert Magnusson as confirming his interest in the Arsenal midfielder, who has also been linked with a move to Italian club Fiorentina.

Magnusson said: "We're definitely interested. I hope things will work out positively. Other than that I can't comment. You can draw your own conclusions from that."

Ljungberg, 30, is the Gunners' longest serving player, having joined them from Halmstad in 1998 for £3million.

He was a instant hit, and boasts a goalscoring record of 72 in 325 games for the club.

ECCLESTONE IN GUNNERS TALKS - REPORT

2007-07-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has reportedly been in negogations with David Dein to make a bid for Arsenal "for weeks".

Ecclestone admitted at the European Grand Prix that he could be interested in buying the Gunners if the price were right amid claims that American billionaire Stan Kroenke was poised to launch a £650million takeover bid.

And according to The Times, talks have been going on "in secret for weeks" with the Gunners' majority shareholder Danny Fiszman and former vice-chairman Dein said to be "the main players".

Just as Ecclestone has been previously considered to be a Chelsea supporter, Dein was thought to have allied himself to Kroenke.

However, The Times claims he would now favour "an all-British takeover" and has reportedly discussed the possibility of selling his 14.6% shareholding to Ecclestone in return for being named chairman when the takeover is sealed.

HILL-WOOD OPENS WENGER TALKS

2007-07-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Chairman Peter Hill-Wood has revealed talks have opened with Arsene Wenger over a new contract and insists Arsenal have "never been in a better position" going into the new season.

The Frenchman's future at the Emirates Stadium has been the subject of speculation this summer, amid suggestions he might choose not to extend his current contract which expires at the end of the forthcoming campaign.

But Hill-Wood remains confident Wenger will sign up after positive recent talks.

"I very much hope he will (sign). It's very important," he told www.arsenal.com.

"He's done a marvellous job for the last 10 years or so. He looks pretty fit to me and I think he enjoys himself still.

"He's got a good job and I'm hoping he'll stay with us.

"We had a fairly lengthy conversation recently and that went very well.

"Hopefully, in the not too distant future we'll have something positive to say about it. I'm confident he'll stay."

Hill-Wood has also dismissed talk of a summer of discontent at Arsenal.

Wenger's side have been stung by the recent departure of captain and lynchpin Thierry Henry for Barcelona, while the futures of Wenger and midfielder Cesc Fabregas have also been the subject of persistent speculation, although the Spaniard committed his future to the club over the weekend.

With Croatia's Brazilian-born striker Eduardo da Silva, full-back Bacary Sagna and goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski the only new arrivals so far, Arsenal's ability to keep pace with their big-spending rivals has been called into question.

But far from seeking to lower expectations ahead of what many have predicted will be a difficult season, Hill-Wood insists he has full confidence in Wenger's men to mount a genuine title challenge.

"I believe we've never been in a better position," said Hill-Wood, chairman of the club since 1982. "I think the team is absolutely first class.

WENGER - I WANTED HENRY TO STAY

2007-07-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has admitted he could not stop Thierry Henry swapping north London for Barcelona as "he wanted to leave".

Henry joined the Spanish giants for £16million last month after eight years with the Gunners and Wenger admits it was firmly the player's decision.

"Of course you don't want to lose a world-class player without having thought about it," he told the News of the World. "At the end of the day, it was his decision.

"He wanted to leave. You don't make a decision like that in a minute. You check to see if the player is really completely sure of what he wants to do.

"But Thierry Henry's decision is down to him. It's not my decision. He wanted to make the move.

"He's nearly 30. Maybe he didn't have the patience anymore to let the young team develop. You can understand that. It was a tough decision."

WENGER GUARDED ON ARSENAL FUTURE

2007-07-15T02:52:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger has vowed to speak about his Arsenal future "at the right moment".

Wenger has a year to run on his current deal and Arsenal fans, reeling from the departure of Thierry Henry to Barcelona, will be praying he decides to extend it.

But the Frenchman was in relaxed mood when quizzed about his future after Arsenal's 2-0 friendly win over Barnet at Underhill.

Asked if he thought he would stay beyond his existing contract, he told Sky Sports News: "I have shown my commitment in the past."

Pressed on whether that meant he would be staying, he added: "I will come out at the right moment... maybe when you don't ask me the question."

Cesc Fabregas, a target for Real Madrid, has given Wenger a boost by committing his future to the Gunners.

"I think Cesc has shown many times that he is committed to the club and Cesc in my mind will never leave," said Wenger.

"He has six or seven years of contract left and we have lost Thierry Henry. We want to keep things as stable as possible."

Wenger is confident that Arsenal can cope in the post-Henry era.

"I think we have good potential to do it," he stressed. "I think we will focus more on sharing the responsibility that Thierry had up front. There will be more focus on team play and not relying so much on one individual.

Wenger is expecting another departure with Jose Antonio Reyes, who was on loan to Real Madrid last season, keen to make the move permanent.

LJUNGBERG AGENT COOLS CITY TALK

2007-07-15T02:51:00.000-07:00

Freddie Ljungberg's agent has played down reports he could join Manchester City by admitting it is unlikely he will stay in the Premier League.

Despite still being under contract at Arsenal, Ljungberg is expected to leave the Emirates Stadium and has been linked with a move to Eastlands.

However, his representative Claes Elefalk told Swedish news agency TT: "He has earlier said that due to his respect for the Arsenal fans he can't play for another English club."

Ljungberg is also subject to interest from Italian side Fiorentina.

"Arsenal are demanding more than the offer Fiorentina have tabled,'' Elefalk added. "The clubs have to reach an agreement first, then we will sit down and discuss an eventual offer.

"We haven't reached that stage yet.''

FREDDIE READY FOR CITY MOVE - REPORT

2007-07-12T04:29:00.000-07:00

Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has reportedly held talks with Arsenal star Freddie Ljungerg in a bid to hijack his Fiorentina move.

Ljungerg, who has spent nine years with the Gunners, has been told he can leave the Emirates Stadium by Arsene Wenger.

Fiorentina were thought to be close to finalising a £5.5million deal for the 30-year-old but The Sun claims Eriksson has held talks with Ljunberg and his agent.

The paper reports the Eastlands outfit are now favourites to land the midfielder for £6million after a successful meeting on Tuesday night.

Ljungberg is on a hefty wage at Arsenal but Eriksson has been told he has a £50million warchest to play with and he is keen to spend it on a player he named the best Swedish footballer still playing.

GUNNERS QUIET ON SAGNA

2007-07-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

Arsenal are yet to respond to reports that they are about to sign French full-back Bakary Sagna from Auxerre and allow Freddie Ljungberg to leave for Fiorentina.

French sports daily l'Equipe claim Sagna, 24, is currently in London and ready to complete a medical once the two clubs agree on a fee, while reports from Italy indicate that Fiorentina are confident of beating off rival Premier League interest from Sunderland and Manchester City for Sweden midfielder Ljungberg.

In June, Sagna, seen as a long-term replacement for Willy Sagnol at right-back in the France national side, was called up to the squad to face Ukraine and Georgia but has still to win his first cap.

Arsenal currently have Ivory Coast star Emmanuel Eboue in pole position at right-back and manager Arsene Wenger has tagged him a "future great".

Now Auxerre expect Sagna back in training at the end of the week if he does not tie up a switch to the Emirates Stadium, where fans are waiting to see what plans the manager has to compensate for the loss of superstar striker Thierry Henry in a ฃ16million move to Barcelona.

It is a question William Gallas, signed from Chelsea in an exchange deal with Ashley Cole last season, has brought into sharp focus by reportedly demanding crisis talks with Wenger over his failure to bring in big names.

Arsenal have to finance their huge investment in the new Emirates Stadium and speculation has been rife that Wenger will have to let other star players go and rely on his youngsters who reached the Carling Cup final last season and helped the club stay in fourth place in the Premier League.

But 30-year-old Ljungberg's future also remains in doubt in north London after nine years at the club and he is being pursued by Fiorentina, who are said have instructed sporting director Pantaleo Corvino to try to broker a deal.

It is not clear whether Ljungberg has had talks with Corvino following earlier denials from the player's agent that the player wanted a move.

VIOLA DISCUSS LJUNGBERG MOVE - AGENT

2007-07-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

Arsenal and Fiorentina are in talks about Freddie Ljungberg joining the Italian club, according to the midfielder's agent.

The 30-year-old Sweden international, who struggled with injury last season, has a contract with the Gunners until 2009 but has also reportedly attracted the interest of both Sunderland and Manchester City.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said in January he wanted to keep Ljungberg but agent Claes Elefalk claims the club are discussing a possible transfer with Fiorentina.

"The two clubs are in discussions," Elefalk told Swedish news agency TT. "If they come to an agreement, Fredrik can think about looking at a move."

He added: "Fredrik is really happy at Arsenal, but if it is an option, he could also consider a move to Fiorentina."

Ljungberg joined the Gunners from Halmstads for ฃ3million in September 1998 and has made more than 300 appearances, weighing in with more than 70 goals.

In 2002, he became the first player to score in successive FA Cup finals for 40 years.

Arsenal have yet to comment on the possibility he will leave and they have also kept silent on reports they are about to sign French full-back Bakary Sagna from Auxerre.

French sports daily L'Equipe claim Sagna, 24, is currently in London and ready to complete a medical once the two clubs agree on a fee.

In June, Sagna, seen as a long-term replacement for Willy Sagnol at right-back in the France national side, was called up to the squad to face Ukraine and Georgia but has still to win his first cap.

Arsenal currently have Ivory Coast star Emmanuel Eboue in pole position at right-back and manager Arsene Wenger has tagged him a "future great".

Now Auxerre expect Sagna back in training at the end of the week if he does not tie up a switch to the Emirates Stadium, where fans are waiting to see what plans the manager has to compensate for the loss of superstar striker Thierry Henry in a ฃ16million move to Barcelona.

It is a question that centre-back William Gallas, signed from Chelsea in an exchange deal with Ashley Cole last season, has brought into sharp focus by reportedly demanding crisis talks with Wenger over his failure to bring in big names.

VIEIRA: GUNNERS TO GET OVER HENRY

2007-07-11T12:12:00.000-07:00

Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira has backed the Gunners to overcome the loss of star striker Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

Vieira, now with Inter Milan, admits Henry's exit is a "big blow" to the north London club.

But the France midfielder feels just as Arsene Wenger managed to replace fans' favourite Ian Wright by bringing in Henry, he will find the right player to succeed Henry in the affections of Gunners fans.

Vieira told Feel Football: "Thierry Henry is a huge player and it is a big blow for the club to lose him, certainly.

"I know how it feels to leave Arsenal, and it is hard. But this has happened before at Arsenal, losing big players through the years, and the club always comes back.

"When I left Arsenal I know they had good quality players in midfield to come in - they had Cesc Fabregas to replace me. They have good quality players up front too, with (Robin) van Persie, who has been injured but is really good, and (Emmanuel) Adebayor. They have the quality to do well, but it will not be easy.

"You have to remember, when Thierry came in he had to replace Ian Wright, which was not an easy thing to do!

"He achieved that and broke all the records, so the person who will take over from Thierry will be in the same position. They will need to do the same thing he did.

"It is important to know that nobody is bigger than the club itself and I hope Arsenal will keep progressing. The club can still progress and they are in a good position. They have a new stadium and all big clubs have a big stadium, so now they need to get the results to be at the very top."

Henry, used to being the undisputed star man at the Emirates Stadium, now finds himself just one among many established superstars of the world game at Barcelona.

But Vieira feels his international team-mate has the quality to shine at the Nou Camp next season.

"There are no doubts, he will be very, very good at Barcelona," Vieira said.

SAGNA CLOSE TO ARSENAL MOVE?

2007-07-10T05:25:00.000-07:00

Arsenal could complete the signing of Bakary Sagna from Auxerre today, according to reports in France.

French daily L'Equipe say the 24-year-old right-back is currently in London and is ready to complete a medical once the two clubs agree on a fee.

The highly-rated defender, who is expected to cost the Gunners around £7.5million, is tipped to become Willy Sagnol's long-term replacement at right-back in the France side.

FABREGAS HAPPY AT ARSENAL

2007-07-10T05:24:00.001-07:00

Real Madrid transfer target Cesc Fabregas says he doesn't want to leave Arsenal.

Real president Ramon Calderon is a long-term admirer of the young Spanish midfielder.

And on Monday new Bernabeu coach Bernd Schuster confirmed he'd love to take the former Barcelona prodigy to the Spanish capital.

Losing Fabregas now would be a disaster for the Gunners, with talisman Thierry Henry already having left for the Nou Camp.

But the midfielder himself told The Daily Star he's in no rush to leave the Emirates Stadium.

He said: "Everyone wants the best for me but I'm happy in London and I haven't made any plans to go.

"Seeing people of all ages, young and old, wearing the shirt with my name on it in London is an honour and gives me a lift. Last season I was the Arsenal player who sold most shirts and that makes me proud.

UNHAPPY GALLAS BLASTS GUNNERS

2007-07-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

William Gallas has hinted he wants to leave Arsenal after criticising Arsene Wenger's transfer policy and questioning the club's ambition.

The French defender claims several Gunners players are unhappy following the departure of Thierry Henry to Barcelona and insists Wenger's policy of buying young players will not deliver trophies.

And he revealed he plans to hold talks with the board when he returns for pre-season training to discuss his own future after becoming frustrated at Arsenal's failure to compete with title contenders Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool.

He told his own website: "What is sure, it is that several players are questioning the club's future.

"Around us, all the teams are recruiting but what is planned to compensate for the departure of Titi Henry?

"I am not at Arsenal to play for third place. It is necessary to recruit players of reputation because the young players have many qualities but the season is very long.

"The young players are thirsty for victories but Arsenal must obtain results to gain titles. If not, one will have to change policy and do the same as the other teams: recruit with more means.

NOBODY GETS SHIRT OFF HENRY'S BACK

2007-07-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

Arsenal are planning for life without Thierry Henry - and officially have not got a player to take his shirt at the Emirates Stadium.

Henry left for Barcelona last month and although boss Arsene Wenger has bought Eduardo Da Silva to supplement his attack, no player has been given the number 14 shirt of the Gunners talisman.

Retiring his shirt has been the buzz of Arsenal fans since his departure to mark his contribution to the club, in the same way AC Milan plan to pay tribute to Paolo Maldini when he stops playing.

Henry's attachment to 14 stretches to his charity work outside football, and he has launched the "THe One 4 Foundation" supporting projects against racism and social inequality.

Theo Walcott, who has been tipped to eventually lead the Arsenal attack in the same way Henry did, was given number 32 for the new season, with Eduardo given nine.

REYES EDGES CLOSER TO REAL DEAL

2007-07-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

Arsenal forward Jose Antonio Reyes' agent has confirmed negotiations are continuing in a bid to secure a permanent move to Real Madrid.

The Spain international spent last season on loan in Madrid, helping them win the Primera Liga title, and is eager to remain at the Bernabeu.

His agent Jesus Rodriguez de Moya said: "Reyes doesn't want to return to London.

"If the logical steps are taken, Reyes will be a Madrid player next year.

"Arsenal are not asking for 20 million euros (£13.6million) but they are asking for a reasonable fee in accordance with what they paid to Sevilla. The negotiations are on the table."

The 23-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Sevilla for £9million in January 2004, scored twice as Madrid clinched the league title with a final-day 3-1 defeat of Real Zaragoza.

GUNNERS CONFIDENT OVER WENGER

2007-07-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

Arsenal are confident Arsene Wenger will sign a new contract later this year, according to reports.

The future of the French manager came under scrutiny after Thierry Henry stated Wenger had become 'unsettled' following the departure of vice-chairman David Dein in April.

However, despite the fact Wenger is nearing the final year of his contract, Arsenal are so confident he will extend his Emirates stay that they have not considered looking for a successor, according to the Guardian.

The newspaper claims talks on a two-to-three year extension have progressed smoothly and it is expected Wenger will pen his new deal some time between October and December, in keeping with previous extensions.

ARSENAL DENY WENGER APPROACH

2007-07-05T11:18:00.000-07:00

Arsenal have described claims that Real Madrid held talks with Arsene Wenger over their vacant manager's position as "completely untrue".

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon suggested the club had spoken with Wenger after parting company with Fabio Capello.

However, the Barclays Premier League club refuted Calderon's claims that Wenger ever spoke with the Spanish champions.

A spokesperson for Arsenal told PA Sport: "It is completely untrue. Arsene Wenger has not had talks with Real Madrid and is committed to Arsenal Football Club."

Madrid are set to appoint a new coach next week following the Italian's dismissal shortly after guiding the team to the Primera Liga title.

But Calderon claimed, on the club's official website - www.realmadrid.com - that Wenger was among the managers they had spoken to about replacing Capello.

Calderon said: "Once we decided that Capello would not continue, [Madrid sporting director Predrag] Mijatovic underwent talks with Schuster, [Ronald] Koeman, [Michael] Laudrup and Wenger."

Wenger's future has been the subject of intense speculation since the departure of long-term boardroom friend David Dein and, more recently, star striker Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

But it is Schuster, who is under contract with Getafe for a further campaign but has reportedly freed himself from his current contract after Madrid reiterated they would not pay a transfer fee to sign a coach, who is in pole position.

"Schuster has told us that he has solved his situation with Getafe," said Calderon. "I am not sure if on Monday he will be at Real Madrid.

"He has always been among the three or four coaches with whom we have spoken. It appears logical that he will be the next coach.

WENGER TURNS ATTENTION TO DEFENCE

2007-07-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger is likely to look to bolster his defensive options, after Arsenal swooped for Croatia hitman Eduardo da Silva.

The signing of the Brazilian-born striker is Wenger's first move in the transfer market since the sale of captain Thierry Henry to Barcelona.

The exact terms of the four-year deal for da Silva - which is subject to a routine medical - have not been disclosed by Arsenal.

However, with some £24million having been brought in following the sale of both Henry and Jeremie Aliadiere, a substantial amount has clearly been spent on securing the services of the prolific forward from Dinamo Zagreb.

Reports, though, from Zagreb that the deal was worth around £16.2million - the fee paid by Barcelona for Henry - are somewhat exaggerated. The package is likely to be more in the region of half that amount.

Even so, that still gives Wenger plenty of room for manoeuvre as he seeks to further strengthen his squad.

Having already brought in Polish goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski, the Arsenal boss is determined to add some more quality.

Wenger is now expected to step up his interest in Auxerre full-back Bakary Sagna.

The 24-year-old is likely to cost around £6million and is keen on a move to Arsenal.

There has, meanwhile, not yet been any official announcement on the role of director of football.

It now seems likely former player Gilles Grimandi will be offered the post, which was created following the shock departure of vice-chairman David Dein in April.

While da Silva is certainly not intended to be a like-for-like replacement, he certainly brings with him a rich pedigree.

The 24-year-old was born in Brazil - but having moved to Europe at the age of 15, he took Croatian nationality in 2002.

It was Da Silva who scored the first competitive goal at Emirates Stadium when the Gunners beat Dinamo during last season's Champions League third qualifying round in late August, and he was also on target for Croatia during the 2-0 European Championship qualifying victory over England in Zagreb last October.

BIG GUNS FIGHT FOR TEVEZ

2007-07-01T09:14:00.001-07:00

Arsenal are reportedly set to battle it out with Manchester United for Carlos Tevez.

The News of the World claims Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has identified Tevez as the ideal replacement for Thierry Henry following the Frenchman's move to Barcelona.

However, it is thought Arsenal cannot afford the £28million asking price for a permanent deal and are instead preparing a £9million package to fund his wages and registration rights on a season-long loan.

United boss Alex Ferguson is also thought to be in the hunt for the Argentine and may also favour a loan deal because of uncertainty over the player's ownership.

Tevez seems certain to leave Upton Park this summer after helping to rescue the Hammers from relegation and sources claim it is between United and Arsenal for his services if he chooses to stay in England.

Inter Milan and Real Madrid are also interested, but it is thought Tevez may prefer to stay in England after his representative Kia Joorabchian was last week quoted as saying: "Carlos' heart is really in the Premier League".

HENRY COMPLETES BARCA MOVE

2007-06-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

Thierry Henry has completed his £16.15million move from Arsenal to Barcelona.

Full story to follow...

HENRY MAKES SAD EXIT

2007-06-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

Thierry Henry admits he will miss Arsenal and claims he will be a "Gunner for life" despite his impending departure.

The London club's record goalscorer is on the brink of completing a reported £16million move to Barcelona.

Henry is due in Catalonia to finalise terms today and is expected to be unveiled tomorrow, but he claims he leaves with a heavy heart.

"Arsenal will always be in my blood and in my heart and I will always remember you guys," the 29-year-old told Arsenal TV.

"I said I was going to be a Gunner for life and I didn't lie because once you are a Gunner you will always a Gunner. The club is in my heart and will remain in my heart forever.

"I am going to miss everybody. It's going to be a huge miss. I will become now an Arsenal fan and look always for the result.

"I always gave 100%. I hope you appreciate what I did here. I appreciated what you did for me."

Henry has cited the uncertainty over manager Arsene Wenger's future and the recent departure of former vice chairman David Dein as factors in his decision to head for Spain.

He added: "I would like to thank everybody I have been involved with at Arsenal, especially the boss and Mr Dein."

Henry has been one of the greatest players to grace the English game and his record at Arsenal has been outstanding with 226 goals coming in 364 appearances.

The former Monaco player joined the club in the summer of 1999 after a disappointing spell at Juventus and game of age under the guidance of Wenger.

He won two Premier League titles, finished as the competition's top scorer on four occasions and collected the FA Cup three times.

He also appeared in last year's Champions League final when the Gunners were beaten by the club he is joining, Barcelona.

The Spanish club first attempted to sign the player last summer but Henry declined, choosing to sign a new four-year contract.

Since then, however, the change behind the scenes at the Emirates Stadium has unsettled the Frenchman.

He added: "Before Mr Dein left, for whatever reason, I went to the boss and said 'I don't want to leave'.

"There had been a lot of speculation about me and I assured him that I did not want to leave.

"But after Mr Dein left that unsettled the team and the boss. Especially as at the moment he has not committed himself to the club.

"He said he will see out his contract but you cannot be sure if he is going to go or stay (at the end of next season).

"Hopefully he is going to stay but I need to be certain and reassured of that. Everybody knows I am 30 [in August].

"The boss being unsettled, Mr Dein going, it did unsettle me a bit. After that I had thoughts of leaving the club."

BARCA OPEN TO HENRY MOVE

2007-06-03T17:51:00.002-07:00

Barcelona are ready to make another approach for Arsenal striker Thierry Henry if the Frenchman indicates his desire to leave England.

The 29-year-old committed his future to the Gunners last summer amid interest from Barca but the Catalan club's sporting director Txiki Beguiristain revealed they are waiting for Henry to show his hand.

"If he has the desire to play here, then we can see if it's going to happen or not," Beguiristain told the Sunday Express.

"Barcelona remains the same. It is the perfect place for players who want to come here. I always say the same thing - it's down to the players to decide."

One who hopes Henry decides to come to the Nou Camp is his international team-mate Lilian Thuram.

"It would be great if he came to Barcelona. It would very good for the club because he's a great player - and for him it would be positive too because this club is ideal for him," he told the News of the World.

BARCA REVIVE HENRY SWOOP - REPORTS

2007-06-03T17:51:00.001-07:00

Barcelona are again trying to persuade Thierry Henry to join them this summer, according to reports from Catalonia.

The La Liga giants tried in vain to lure Henry from North London last year, but eventually he snubbed their advances and signed a new deal.

After a trophyless season at the Emirates Stadium though the Spaniards apparently believe they've a great chance of finally getting the French striker to commit to a move.

According to El Mundo Deportivo Barca are hoping their advances will get agreement from Henry to move to Spain.

The Catalan daily claims Barca bosses Ferran Soriano and Txiki Begeristain are hoping to seal a deal this summer, and says contact has been made with Henry's camp.

It also says Barca could revive the four-year contract they'd put in place for Henry last year.

Then it appeared almost certain he'd move to the Nou Camp, but decided to stay in London after the Gunners lost 2-1 to Barca in the Champions League final in Paris.

Of course even if Barca did manage to get Henry's agreement for a move they'd still have to persuade Arsenal to let him go.

One man who'd love to see Henry at the Nou Camp is his former France team-mate Lilian Thuram.

He told El Mundo: "If Thierry Henry wanted to change clubs tomorrow it would be great if he came to Barca. It would be very good for the club because he is a great player and for him also because the way Barca play would be ideal for him."

BORO STEP UP ALIADIERE INTEREST

2007-06-03T17:51:00.000-07:00

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate's pursuit of Arsenal striker Jeremie Aliadiere could finally pay dividends this summer.

It is understood the Teessiders have agreed a deal with the Gunners which could take the 24-year-old Frenchman to the Riverside Stadium.

However, the player is currently on holiday and has not yet discussed the proposed move.

Southgate tried to sign Aliadiere last season to bolster his striking resources, but having failed in his efforts to lure him away from the Emirates Stadium, turned instead to South Korea international Dong-Gook Lee.

The Rambouillet-born frontman played a major role in Arsenal's Carling Cup campaign, but his first-team appearances were once again limited.

But with Mark Viduka's future uncertain - he is being heavily tipped to join derby rivals Newcastle with his contract due to expire within weeks - and Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp being linked with a move to take Ayegbeni Yakubu back to Fratton Park, Southgate's need is pressing.

The Boro manager is currently on a two-week residential course at Lilleshall as he studies for his UEFA A Licence, while chairman Steve Gibson is on holiday and chief executive Keith Lamb was attending Friday's meeting of Premier League chairmen.

There was no comment on the matter from the club, but Southgate is known to have included the likes of Aliadiere and West Brom's Diomansy Kamara among his list of potential targets.

FABIANSKI SECURES GUNNERS MOVE

2007-05-26T11:50:00.001-07:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has clinched the signing of young Poland goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski for an undisclosed fee.

The 22-year-old has signed what the club describes as a "long-term" contract.

Fabianski has made four appearances for his country and was voted the Polish league's best goalkeeper for the previous two seasons after some fine performances for former club Legia Warsaw.

Wenger told the club's official website: "We are pleased to have signed Lukasz Fabianski.

"He is a very good young goalkeeper who will provide good support to our squad.

"He has performed consistently well for Legia Warsaw in recent seasons and was rightfully rewarded with a place in the Polish World Cup squad.

"Lukasz will be a big asset to our squad and we are looking forward to him joining us for pre-season."

WENGER: GET REAL, FAB STAYS

2007-05-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists Cesc Fabregas will be at the Emirates Stadium next season.

Fabregas has been the subject of speculation in the Spanish media about a move to Real Madrid, but Wenger is confident the 20-year-old will be at the heart of the Gunners' midfield for the next Barclays Premiership campaign.

Wenger told Spanish newspaper Marca: "Cesc is going to spend the next year with Arsenal."

Fabregas trained with Barcelona before joining Arsenal four years ago and seeing his development accelerate.

The Spain international has been the focal point of Wenger's midfield this season, leading to inevitable speculation regarding a return to his native country.

While Wenger is confident Fabregas will not move to Spain, Julio Baptista is set to return to the Bernabeu following his season with Arsenal.

The future of Jose Antonio Reyes, who was loaned to Madrid in the other direction, appears more uncertain as he has consistently repeated his wish to remain in Spain.

Wenger's options in attack will be complicated further next season as Emmanuel Adebayor is expected to play for Togo in the African Nations.

It could give Theo Walcott a chance to shine. The 18-year-old is determined to impress after scoring his first goal for Arsenal in the Carling Cup final defeat to Chelsea.

He said: "It was a big disappointment not to win the Carling Cup but it shows what the young players can do and hopefully we can do it again.

"And I'm sure if we work hard we will be right up there in the title race too."

OWEN NEXT FOR GUNNERS?

2007-05-22T11:46:00.002-07:00

Striker Emmanuel Adebayor has signed a new 'long-term' deal at Arsenal as speculation continues to link the Gunners with a move for Newcastle and England's Michael Owen.

The Togo international has established himself as a regular in Arsene Wenger's first team after arriving at the club in the 2006 January transfer window.

Adebayor's contract extension is hot on the heels of Emmanuel Eboue's decision to make a similar commitment to Arsenal.

The length of Adebayor's new contract was not disclosed by the Gunners but the move comes in the wake of renewed speculation that Owen could be bound for the Emirates.

Wenger is expected to watch Owen play for England B against Albania on Friday and again when England play Brazil and Estonia.

Owen's chances of moving to champions Manchester United are understood to have evaporated because of the combination of his ฃ5million-a-year wages and doubts over his fitness.

He has yet to discuss his future on Tyneside with new manager Sam Allardyce but his Liverpool counterpart Rafa Benitez has no interest in taking the former Liverpool striker back to Anfield.

Wenger, in the meantime, has assured fans they will be back among the silverware next season.

Arsenal have not won anything for two years but the French coach believes his young side have the ability to end that run next term.

BRUCE TARGETS ANOTHER GUNNER

2007-05-22T11:46:00.001-07:00

Birmingham manager Steve Bruce insisted he has learnt from his previous mistakes and will not buy ageing players in a bid to keep the club in the Barclays Premiership.

Bruce admitted he got it wrong by bringing in players at the tail-end of their careers two years ago as City were relegated from the top flight.

He dismantled his squad 12 months ago, put the accent on young players and was rewarded with instant promotion from the Coca-Cola Championship.

Bruce is aware of the need to strengthen but the accent will primarily be on players like Arsenal's 20-year-old defender Johan Djourou who he is hoping to sign on loan.

The Blues boss said: "When we went down 12 months ago, the average age of the squad was something like 31, 32 which was ridiculous so we won't make that mistake again.

"We had too many players at the wrong age, at the wrong time of their career, and that wasn't helpful.

"We let 18-20 players go and brought in a whole new squad to get us promoted. The vast majority of the players here now are young and hungry and they deserve a crack at the Premiership.

"There will be a few comings and goings but the vast majority of the squad deserve a chance. Of course we have to strengthen. We are back in the best league in the world again.

"We will have to spend a bit but rest assured I won't go down that route of signing too many players at the wrong end of my career."

Birmingham have an excellent relationship with Arsenal and last season Nicklas Bendtner, Fabrice Muamba and Sebastian Larsson were all signed on loan with the latter two eventually moving to St. Andrews on a permanent basis.

ADEBAYOR SIGNS NEW ARSENAL DEAL

2007-05-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

Arsenal striker Emanuel Adebayor has signed a new long-term deal at the Emirates Stadium.

The Togo forward, 23, joined the Gunners from French club Monaco in the 2006 January transfer window and has impressed manager Arsene Wenger enough to earn an extended contract.

Adebayor has become a key part of Wenger's plans, shouldering much of the side's attacking burden in Thierry Henry's recent absence through injury, scoring 16 goals in 57 appearances since joining the club.

WENGER 'SENT BY GOD' - HLEB

2007-05-16T17:12:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger is a "coach sent by God", according to Arsenal winger Alexander Hleb.

The Gunners boss is determined to mould his squad into one capable of competing for honours again next season.

While Wenger knows he must find a new balance to make Arsenal an effective fighting unit - especially away from home - the Frenchman also has great belief in the potential of his players.

Hleb has now chalked up more than 80 appearances for the Gunners, having joined from Stuttgart during the summer of 2005 for a reported ฃ10million.

The Belarus winger took some time to settle, but has always been supported by Wenger despite often heavy criticism.

It is a trait which Hleb feels puts Wenger in a league of his own.

"At Stuttgart I played just behind the main striker and the play all went through me. Then at Arsenal, I got a different role and it took me a while to adapt to the constant movement on the right side of midfield," he said.

"Wenger is a great tactician, he sees absolutely everything.

"He knows how to find a key to every player - he is a coach sent by God.

Hleb told World Soccer magazine: "I still remember him saying: 'Alexander, I do not just buy any player; I watched you for two years. Everyone finds it hard at first, especially if you come from another country. I am convinced everything will work out.'

"Those words helped me a lot."

The midfielder, 26, added: "I am loving being able to work under him. He supported me through the difficult times early on and carried on believing in me.

MATURING DJOUROU TARGETS TROPHIES

2007-05-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

Arsenal's young Gunners reckon they can rise to the challenges of next season and fight for top honours.

Full-back Emmanuel Eboue, 23, has been rewarded with a new long-term deal and is one of several youngsters with plenty of first-team experience due to the confidence shown by manager Arsene Wenger.

However, those emerging talents are all too aware they must deliver sooner rather than later.

Swiss defender Johan Djourou is one of several hungry youngsters eager to make their mark.

"I am very proud of my season. I am only 20 and I have played a lot of games in the Premiership," said Djourou, whose progress was hampered by a groin problem.

"That is all good for my experience and I hope I can keep going now, to play even more."

Djourou added: "We have guys like Cesc [Fabregas], Denilson and Justin Hoyte, who have all shown when they have played that they are ready for it.

"Next season we have to take that step further and try to be in there for all the games.

"When you are a young player you want to continue to improve and be first choice."

Wenger remains a staunch supporter of the young players in his squad, having sought to build a team for the future following the club's move to their new Emirates Stadium home and the ongoing financial commitments which came with it.

WENGER WANTS GUNNERS FIT FOR PURPOSE

2007-05-15T11:07:00.001-07:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger reckons getting all his key men fit will feel like the "biggest transfer" he can pull off this summer.

The Gunners ended a disappointing campaign with a goalless draw at Portsmouth on Sunday to finish fourth in the Barclays Premiership for the second year running.

Wenger accepts that is not good enough, and is determined to lift his emerging squad back into title contention next season.

While some may feel the team needs a significant injection of proven talent to get close to Manchester United and Chelsea, the Arsenal manager has every confidence in the players already at the club.

Wenger believes the Gunners will be a different proposition next season should the likes of inspirational captain Thierry Henry, leading scorer Robin van Persie and England international Theo Walcott all come into August in top condition.

"If you look at the number of players who were not at Portsmouth and the quality of our performance, we have the right to be optimistic," said Wenger.

"I am looking [for new players], but I am also at the moment happy with the players I have and am also focused on developing the team I have. I feel the team is growing well."

Wenger declared: "The biggest transfer I can make is to try to get everybody fit by the start of next season.

"If I manage that I have done 80% of the job and I will be pleased, the other 20% is optional - whether I buy or not.

"If I can just manage to do that 80%, to get everybody in perfect shape for the start of the season, then I have done a good job."

EBOUE PENS GUNNERS DEAL

2007-05-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger today continued to show faith in his young Gunners by rewarding full-back Emmanuel Eboue with a new long-term deal.

However, the emerging talents within the squad are all too aware they must deliver sooner rather than later.

Eboue, 23, has come a long way in a short space of time since joining from Belgian club Beveren two years ago.

The Ivory Coast international was in the starting XI for last season's Champions League final, and went on to play at the World Cup.

Eboue retained his place at right-back for Arsenal following the return to fitness of veteran Brazilian Lauren, who was eventually released to join Portsmouth.

Wenger remains a staunch supporter of the young players in his squad, having sought to build a team for the future following the club's move to their new Emirates Stadium home and the ongoing financial commitments which came with it.

However, for all his strengths, particularly in helping support the attack down the flanks, Eboue is still somewhat a raw talent - and prone to the odd loss of self control, as shown during his involvement in the melee at the end of the Carling Cup final which earned him a three-match ban.

Wenger, though, clearly believes the African has a bright future ahead, despite the club not revealing the length of the "long-term contract".

Another young Gunner hoping for more first-team action next season is Johan Djourou.

The Swiss defender, 20, was utilised in a holding midfield role during the final Barclays Premiership match of the season at Portsmouth.

WENGER WAITS FOR BUDGET DECISION

2007-05-13T19:51:00.002-07:00

Manager Arsene Wenger expects to find out next week just what funds he will have available this summer - but knows throwing money at the Arsenal squad in search of a quick fix is not necessarily the answer.

The Gunners boss has been promised the finances for investment in new players by the board should he want it.

However, that is likely to be far less than what is to be made available from the new American owners at Liverpool and Aston Villa, not to mention how much Chelsea will spend looking to wrestle the Barclays Premiership title back from Manchester United - themselves also sure to strengthen.

It remains to be seen what will transpire from the interests of new Arsenal shareholder Stan Kroenke, with the involvement of the American billionaire understood to be behind the shock departure of vice-chairman David Dein.

For the moment, however, Wenger has little choice than to accept what is on offer within the constraints the club operate under, having an on-going commitment to their new 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium.

"Certainly there is money to spend in the summer. How much? Frankly at the moment I do not know. We have to see," said the Arsenal boss.

"It is linked as well with who goes out, who comes in.

"You can create money. That is what we always try to do - but how much I do not know."

Wenger added: "I will be meeting the board at some point next week to discuss the budget."

The Gunners manager, though, knows there can be no quick fix to regain the vast experience gone from his squad in recent seasons.

He said: "You look in the last two years - we have lost Robert Pires, Dennis Bergkamp, Sylvain Wiltord, Sol Campbell, Ashley Cole, Patrick Vieira, Edu, Kanu, Martin Keown.

"It is a capital of experience you lose and you do not replace that from one second to the next."

RICHARDS - ARSENAL IS 'DREAM' CLUB

2007-05-13T19:51:00.001-07:00

Micah Richards admits he is not unsettled at Manchester City but would relish a "dream move" to Arsenal.

The England international full-back, 18, is expected to be a target for the Premiership's 'top four' during the summer.

But Richards told the News of the World: "Obviously I'd like to play Champions League football, but time is on my side.

"I have three years left on my contract and I feel a commitment to the manager and fans. I like working for Stuart Pearce. He gave me my chance. I can learn a lot from him.

"I am ambitious and flattered to be linked with the big clubs, but I got into the England squad playing for City, so there's no reason why I need to move at the moment."

He added: "Arsenal are my team and it would be a dream move. I grew up supporting the Gunners."

WENGER READY TO START AFRESH

2007-05-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger would be happy to scrap the summer break and get on with the business of Arsenal challenging again for the Barclays Premiership title straight away.

The Gunners head to Portsmouth on Sunday looking to sign off from what has been an overall disappointing campaign with a victory, which could see them finish third ahead of Champions League finalists Liverpool.

Despite reaching the Carling Cup final with a youthful team, there is no doubt this year could have yielded so much more for Wenger's men.

Even though they beat champions Manchester United at home and away in the Premiership, and also scored three wins over Liverpool as well as drawing with Chelsea twice, performances against sides which they should have turned over comfortably proved their Achilles' heel.

An early exit from the FA Cup was swiftly followed by the end of their European campaign, and the sidelining of inspirational captain Thierry Henry for the remainder of the season through injury.

However, such disappointments spur Wenger on to come out fighting again in August - which cannot come soon enough for the Gunners boss.

He said: "We want to finish as quickly as possible and start again.

"I would be happy if you said to me tomorrow we start again straight away, cut out the holidays and let's go for it again, because it will be a long summer.

"But we have to adapt and use this period to go away and reflect on what has happened this year, make the right assessment and start again in a very efficient way.

CLICHY KEEN TO KEEP IT TIGHT

2007-05-11T08:45:00.003-07:00

Gael Clichy knows Arsenal must tighten up at the back if they are to become genuine Barclays Premiership title challengers again next season.

The Gunners kept just two clean sheets during the last 10 matches following their early exit from the Champions League.

While they have won four of those games, lapses in defensive concentration have proved costly too often this season.

Arsenal could finish third in the Barclays Premiership should they better Liverpool's result on Sunday, but there remains a feeling this campaign promised so much more.

Having only stopped the opposition from scoring eight times in 27 games at Emirates Stadium this season, Clichy knows there is certainly room for improvement.

"I do not think it is only frustrating for the back four, I think it is for the team and the fans," said the 21-year-old left-back.

"But like I always say when you cannot keep a clean sheet or you make a mistake, you have to ask yourself the right question.

"I think that is what we miss [clean sheets] because we play well and we know if we do not concede any goals then we will have the chance and the opportunities to score.

"We are trying really hard I can tell you, but for some time we have missed focus and we have made some mistakes. The important thing is to avoid those mistakes."

Clichy added: "I will work even harder next season to keep my position and I am looking to keep playing with all the defenders, because we all have qualities and we work hard to make something happen for the team."

Arsenal could come up against two of their former players in their last game of the season against Portsmouth at Fratton Park - Lauren and Sol Campbell.

Former England defender Campbell, 32, currently struggling with an Achilles problem, and the Cameroonian full-back, 30, were part of the all-conquering 'Invincibles' side who lifted the Premier League trophy in such style three years ago.

HENRY WILL STAY - WENGER

2007-05-11T08:45:00.002-07:00

Arsene Wenger has 'guaranteed' Arsenal captain Thierry Henry will not be sold this summer.

Recent reports have linked the France international, 29, with a move to Barcelona during the close season.

Following a fallow season at the Emirates Stadium, during which a Carling Cup final appearance was the closest the Gunners came to silverware, it has been suggested that Henry might look elsewhere in search of honours as he nears his 30th birthday.

The striker has not played since March due to stomach and groin injuries, prompting fears he may have made his last appearance in north London.

But Wenger has dismissed that suggestion and said: "It is more down to imagination than anything else, Thierry Henry will be here next year."

Asked whether he could guarantee to fans that Henry would remain at the Emirates after the current campaign, Wenger told the club's website: "Yes, of course."

WENGER CONFIRMS KEEPER DEAL

2007-05-11T08:45:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger has confirmed Arsenal are set to sign Poland goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.

Fabianski, 22, is about to join the Gunners from Legia Warsaw and will challenge Jens Lehmann next season.

"That will be done," Wenger told the club's website.

"He will be our new goalkeeper. He will join us next year, be in the squad and compete for a position.

"He is one for the future. We have identified him as having all the qualities to challenge here and be one of the future great goalkeepers for Arsenal."

Wenger was, however, coy about Fabianski's chances of challenging Lehmann and Manuel Almunia for a first-team place straight away.

"We will assess him when he joins the squad to see how mature he is," the Frenchman added.

"We have to be open-minded, it is down to performances."

LAUREN MISSES OUT AGAINST FORMER CLUB

2007-05-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Former Arsenal defender Lauren has been added to Portsmouth's casualty list for Sunday's home clash with his old club.

The Cameroon star has a foot injury and joins another ex-Gunner Sol Campbell (Achilles) and skipper Dejan Stefanovic (thigh) on the sidelines.

Midfielders Matt Taylor (ankle) and Richard Hughes (knee) continue to be doubtful after missing the game at Everton but Pedro Mendes is back in the squad and could play his first game since an ankle operation in February.

Teams:

Portsmouth (from): James, Johnson, Primus, Pamarot, Traore, O'Neil, Davis, Hughes, Pedro Mendes, Kranjcar, Taylor, Benjani, Kanu, Lualua, Todorov, O'Brien, Mvuemba, Ashdown.

WENGER - GUNNERS MORE AT HOME NOW

2007-05-09T20:45:00.002-07:00

Arsene Wenger intends for Arsenal to put the squeeze on teams at Emirates Stadium next season to force their way back into title contention.

The Gunners could yet finish third in the Barclays Premiership if they better Liverpool's result when they travel to Portsmouth on the final day of the campaign.

However, there remains a feeling of underachievement within the Arsenal camp, having ended another season without silverware.

Although reaching the Carling Cup final with a youthful squad may well bode well for the future, Wenger knows his first-team players must become more consistent to close the gap on the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, as well as pressing for honours in the Champions League.

Part of the problem this season, in the Premiership at least, has been dropping too many points at their new Emirates Stadium home.

Converting those six draws into victories would have lifted the Gunners into contention for second place, albeit still lagging behind United because of seven costly away defeats.

Wenger believes things will be different next season, his men now familiar with the impressive surroundings of the 60,000-seater venue.

"Now we feel we are nearly there, not completely, but we feel much more at home now," said the Arsenal boss, whose men drew 1-1 with Chelsea on Sunday to end the visitors' own title hopes.

"At the start of the season we allowed too much space to our opponents, and we do not do that as much anymore.

"It is true that we have scored a lot of different types of goals here to the ones we scored at Highbury.

"We scored a lot more counter-attacking, direct goals there, because at Emirates teams have more time to regroup behind the ball. Also they tend to play 4-5-1 more here because they do not want to leave as much space for us to exploit.

Wenger added: "The size of the pitch has affected the way Arsenal have played this season too.

BARCA BACK FOR HENRY

2007-05-09T20:45:00.001-07:00

Barcelona are set to have another crack at signing Arsenal's Thierry Henry and are expected to make a ฃ15million summer bid, according to reports.

The Primera Liga giants are aiming to capitalise on the current unrest at the Gunners, who have failed to win any trophies for the second successive season, to land the French striker.

With the possibility of manager Arsene Wenger leaving after his contract expires next year, the Daily Star claims Arsenal could be ready to sell their captain as they prepare to reshape the club.

There have been concerns regarding Henry's influence at the Emirates Stadium and Barca now hope Arsenal will decide this is the time to cash in on their talisman.

Frank Rijkaard could well lose Samuel Eto'o to Manchester United this summer and will therefore need a replacement to lead Barcelona to glory on multiple fronts next season.

Although Henry has turned down a move to the Nou Camp in the past, he's thought to be top of president Joan Laporta's wish-list and he could well be lured to Spain by the offer of a four-year deal worth a possible ฃ7m a season.

Henry has made it clear in recent weeks he doesn't want to leave Arsenal but with his future entwined with that of Wenger, there could be a swift change of stance this summer.

VAN PERSIE BACKS GUNNERS FOR GLORY

2007-05-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Robin van Persie had plenty of time to reflect on life with Arsenal during his enforced injury lay-off - and the Dutch forward is as determined as ever to guide the Gunners back to the glory trail again next season.

Arsenal had to make do without their top-scorer since the end of January when he suffered a fractured metatarsal as he netted against Manchester United at Emirates Stadium.

Van Persie, whose tally of 13 has yet to be beaten by any of his team-mates, has undergone an extensive course of rehabilitation, and had to take a complete break from the hectic routine of a professional footballer.

After spending some time in his native Holland, the 23-year-old has recently stepped up his fitness work and will return to pre-season training a couple of weeks earlier than the rest of the squad.

Van Persie, who could have been rushed back into action if needed by Arsene Wenger, feels such a period away from the game will see him return refreshed for the battles ahead next season.

"For the first two weeks all I could do was sit at home. That moment was very hard for me," the young Dutch forward recalled.

"I was watching lots of football, but there I was, not even able to go to my own kitchen to get a drink. Everything had to be done for me.

"I had a lot of time to think about things such as how I see Arsenal, how Arsenal sees me, how I can improve. Those things you can really think about, but when you live day to day there is no time to stop and think about it.

"You are too tired and also in football it is always 'the next game, the next game, this game has gone, look at the next one' - and suddenly I did not have that for three or four months. Trust me that was very interesting."

UNITED CHAMPS AFTER CHELSEA DRAW

2007-05-06T16:35:00.001-07:00

Manchester United were crowned Barclays Premiership champions for a record ninth time on Sunday.

United have a seven-point lead over second-placed Chelsea with two games remaining after they beat Manchester City 1-0 on Saturday and Jose Mourinho's side could only draw 1-1 at Arsenal.

It means Sir Alex Ferguson can take his team to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night having already reclaimed the title from Chelsea, who had won it for the last two seasons.

There were few chances at the Emirates Stadium before Chelsea defender Khalid Boulahrouz was shown a red card for hauling down Julio Baptista on 42 minutes and Gilberto converted the resulting penalty.

Michael Essien's close-range header with 20 minutes left gave the Blues renewed hope - but a draw was not enough and United were champions again for the first time since 2003.

Sir Alex admitted he was "in agony" watching the final few minutes at the Emirates.

Ferguson had vowed to avoid the game but admitted he ran out of things to do to keep him occupied.

"I went to see my grandson play this afternoon; they won their league and we won ours!" Ferguson said.

"I was twiddling my thumbs. I watched the last 15 minutes at the Emirates and was in agony.

"My heart was in my mouth.

"It's a great effort by Chelsea, we've got to give them great credit."

Asked how the triumph rates with the previous eight, Ferguson said: "All of them were good.

"Maybe the fact that for two years Chelsea dominated the Premier League and we had a big job to do to catch them (makes this one special).

JOSE HAILS DETHRONED 'HEROES'

2007-05-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho labelled his players "heroes" despite seeing the Barclays Premiership title head to Old Trafford.

Chelsea needed to win at Arsenal to keep the season alive but could only manage a 1-1 draw, Michael Essien equalising after a Gilberto penalty put the home side in front.

Asked if the best team had won the title, Mourinho said: "It doesn't matter, what matters is the team with more points is the champion.

"I have to congratulate the champions, the players, the manager, the fans, the board; all the people that help them be champions.

"I have to say that maybe I'm prouder today than when I was champion. My players are heroes. All season, against absolutely everything, they did brilliantly.

"The season was magnificent and I think today is a game to remember. It showed how big Chelsea players are and I couldn't be happier with the way it finished for us."

Speaking on Sky Sports 1, Mourinho added: "We had a big problem only to play all season only with (Ricardo) Carvalho at centre-half but now is not the moment to talk about that.

"I'm very proud of my players. Normally when a team has a lot of success and loses a championship it's lack of motivation, not the same spirit or ambition, but it was exactly the opposite.

"My team was brilliant."

HENRY IN BUT BECKS OUT OF TIME

2007-05-03T12:13:00.001-07:00

Arsenal striker Thierry Henry has been named by Time magazine as one of the world's 100 most influential people - but Los Angeles-bound David Beckham did not make the cut.

The US-based magazine first published their list in 1999 and each year honour individuals divided into five groups - Leaders and Revolutionaries, Builders and Titans, Artists and Entertainers, Scientists and Thinkers, and Heroes and Icons.

Henry, 29, has been named in the latter section, but there was no room for the former England captain despite his big-money transfer to Major League Soccer club Los Angeles Galaxy.

NBA star Tony Parker, who captains the French basketball team, praised Henry's contribution to race awareness in sport.

The San Antonio Spurs point guard said: "He wants to change the world. It's no secret that European soccer is fighting a racism problem, in the crowd and on the field, and no player has done more to exorcise it than Thierry.

"His impact has been immense."

Beckham did make the list in 2004 - alongside golfer Tiger Woods, British athlete Paula Radcliffe and Tour de France legend Lance Armstrong - but has failed to regain his place after resigning the England captaincy and then losing his place in the international team.

WENGER FINED OVER LINESMAN COMMENT

2007-05-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been fined ฃ2,500 by the Football Association for comments he made about an assistant referee following the Carling Cup final.

At a disciplinary hearing, the Gunners boss denied a charge of improper conduct and/or bringing the game into disrepute for his remarks after the clash with Chelsea on February 23, which his side lost in controversial fashion.

However, the FA commission found against the Frenchman and concluded that his use of the word "lie" when describing the assistant's intervention, which led to the sending-off of Emmanuel Adebayor, constituted improper conduct.

Wenger made the comment after seeing three of his players - Adebayor, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Eboue - sent off following a scuffle at the end of the match in Cardiff.

In bringing the charge against him in March, the FA demanded an explanation both for his comments about the assistant referee and his remark that "the whole system is not honest" after seeing Adebayor's appeal against a three-game ban dismissed.

Wenger said at the time: "The officials made a mistake. Adebayor did not punch Lampard and didn't intend to, we can prove it. It isn't the truth, I don't accept it.

"I cannot accept that our club is treated like this.

"I will defend it to the FA. It was a lie and is not responsible."

WENGER WARNS UNITED OF LEAGUE COLLAPSE

2007-05-01T13:34:00.002-07:00

Arsene Wenger has warned Manchester United getting knocked out of the Champions League could dent their Barclays Premiership hopes.

United defend a 3-2 semi-final lead against AC Milan and are on course for the treble, although they could also end up empty-handed.

Sir Alex Ferguson's men are five points clear at the top of the Premiership with three games to play but would need to lift themselves quickly for Saturday's derby at Manchester City should they lose in Italy.

Arsenal boss Wenger, who saw his side's form dip after their Champions League exit this season, said: "The team that goes out of the Champions League now - whether it's Manchester United or Chelsea or Liverpool - they will have a little dip because it's like losing someone from your family.

"You need time to recover from that. The team who goes out will suffer in the championship. That is for sure."

The Gunners were knocked out of the Champions League at the last-16 stage earlier this season and then won once in five games.

Goalkeeper Jens Lehmann believes Arsenal will be among the contenders for Europe's top prize this time next year, one of the reasons why he signed a new contract until the end of the next campaign.

WALCOTT WON'T BE SENT TO COVENTRY

2007-05-01T13:34:00.001-07:00

Coventry assistant manager Tim Flowers has dismissed rumours linking Arsenal starlet Theo Walcott with a season-long loan spell at the Ricoh Arena.

Flowers brushed off any links with Walcott but hinted he and manager Iain Dowie are looking at similar arrangements for other players ahead of next season.

"Theo Walcott? It is a great rumour, but no," Flowers told the Coventry Telegraph.

"But Birmingham brought in three players from Arsenal who have massively improved their squad so you have to look at things like that.

"What we do will be determined by the budget but there will be changes in the summer, and hopefully quite a few."

SUNDAY WILL DECIDE FUTURE - ADEBAYOR

2007-05-01T13:34:00.000-07:00

Emmanuel Adebayor feels beating Chelsea on Sunday will show just what Arsenal can achieve next season.

The Togo striker chalked up his 12th goal of the campaign with a late strike in the 3-1 victory over Fulham at Emirates Stadium yesterday.

The Gunners are now only a point behind Liverpool as they look to salvage a third-place finish from what has been a disappointing year for Arsene Wenger's squad.

Chelsea's hopes of retaining the Barclays Premiership title could end with defeat in north London to the side they beat in the Carling Cup final.

However, Adebayor - who served a four-match ban for his part in the melee which marred the end of the match at the Millennium Stadium - maintains Sunday's encounter will be about putting on a fine display for the home fans, rather than exacting any sort of "revenge".

"It hurt all the players to lose to them in the Carling Cup final, especially after we played so well and did not get the result we deserved," the 23-year-old said.

"But with all that happened in Cardiff, it is not about us taking revenge.

"We are just going to play the game to win for the fans and as a footballer you always want to win against a big team like Chelsea.

2007-04-29T12:51:00.002-07:00

Manager Arsene Wenger expects Jens Lehmann to "battle" it out with Manuel Almunia for the Arsenal goalkeeper's jersey next season.

Veteran German international Lehmann, 37, has agreed a one-year extension with the Gunners, ending speculation over his future at the Emirates Stadium.

Almunia, 29, has seen his first-team chances limited over the past two seasons to mainly in the cup competitions, with just one Barclays Premiership appearance.

However, Wenger indicated that could change.

The Arsenal manager said: "I see Jens as a top-glass goalkeeper and Almunia as a top-class goalkeeper, so it will be a battle at some stage because Almunia has improved tremendously.

"Manuel is going up and Jens thinks he is still going up!

"Jens is trying every day to make life difficult for those who compete with him. That is very good because it makes those who are competing with him improve as well.

"He is a 100% professional. He gives something to the team as well in the dressing-room if it is needed."

Wenger also revealed he hoped to soon have a decision on the future of forward Julio Baptista, who is currently on-loan from Real Madrid.

WENGER EAGER TO DEVELOP YOUNG GUNNERS

2007-04-29T12:51:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger remains fully focused on turning Arsenal's emerging squad into title contenders again next season.

The shock departure of vice-chairman David Dein, Wenger's closest ally on the board, led to speculation the Frenchman could be set to follow him out of Emirates Stadium.

However, Wenger, 57, fully intends to honour the remainder of his contract, which runs until the summer of 2008, with the club keen to extend that deal sooner rather than later.

The Arsenal manager, however, continues to "live on short-term", and is determined to get his squad back to the levels reached a few years ago when they were the dominant force of the English game.

Wenger said: "I want to develop this team because I feel there is a lot in there.

"I need one more year, and after one more year I can assess how far I can push this team.

"We have agreed to speak about it [future] the end of the season. At the moment I do not even think about that. I am too much in the competition.

"I have over one year to go and I want to finish work this season.

"I live on short-term. I have done it before."

Wenger added: "I feel it is important that I focus on how far I can go with this team and continue to respect the values I have tried to develop since I arrived here.

"And I will continue to develop next year."

Arsenal head into Sunday's game with relegation-battlers Fulham looking to cement another top-four finish in the Barclays Premiership.

WENGER WARNING OVER NEW DIRECTOR

2007-04-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger insists Arsenal's new director of football must hold true to the "values" of the club.

Following the shock departure of vice-chairman David Dein - who helped the Gunners boss in transfers over the past decade - there are set to be changes to the internal structure of the club.

Wenger revealed an appointment will "happen in the summer", but that the man coming in would have to meet strict criteria.

Former Monaco general manager Henri Biancheri, who worked with Wenger in France, has been linked with a role at Emirates Stadium.

However, the Gunners boss stressed: "He will be appointed by me, but it will not necessarily be a friend of mine.

"It will be somebody who will do the job well because if I go after one day the guy still has to work here.

"I am looking for somebody who has experience of negotiating a little bit, somebody I can leave alone because sometimes I cannot be there.

"It will have to be somebody who understands football and knows the football world as well and somebody who has the values and agrees with the values we want to hold at the club."

Arsenal host Fulham tomorrow boosted by the news that veteran goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has agreed a one-year extension to stay at the club.

And Wenger is hopeful he will soon have some concrete news on the future of forward Julio Baptista, who is coming to the end of his season-long loan deal from Real Madrid.

Wenger added: "I will meet his agents next week and Real Madrid a bit later.

"I can talk to the player. Whether he stays or goes, I still need to talk to the agent.

"If he stays, what price? If he goes, how do we do it?

"What can we do about it? You always need some service."

Jose Antonio Reyes went the other way as part of the deal during the closing hours of the August transfer window, but Wenger revealed that nothing has yet been ratified concerning where the winger will be playing next season.

WENGER SALUTES OLD FOE FERGIE

2007-04-26T12:50:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger has hailed rival Sir Alex Ferguson's march towards a second Treble while admitting Arsenal's "massively disappointing" season has been hampered by their move to a new stadium.

In an unusual show of magnanimity towards the Manchester United boss, with whom he has had many public disagreements in the past, Wenger has insisted that the Scot deserves to be named manager of the year.

But, despite Chelsea's bid for an unprecedented quadruple of trophies, the Gunners chief has ignored Blues counterpart Jose Mourinho, instead claiming Reading's Steve Coppell is Ferguson's nearest rival for the honour.

Asked who would get his vote, Wenger said: "I feel this year Sir Alex Ferguson, because he's in a position to fight on every front, and Steve Coppell, who is in a position where nobody expected him to be and he has a team who do not play negatively - they have a positive attitude everywhere they go."

After 10 trophy-laden years in north London, it is unusual for Wenger himself not to be considered one of the front-runners when end-of-season honours are being bestowed.

But with Arsenal lying fourth in the Barclays Premiership and out of the FA Cup and Champions League, their controversial final defeat to Chelsea in the Carling Cup will remain their strongest sniff of silverware this year.

The Gunners' frustrating inconsistency has been widely attributed to the youthful nature of their squad.

And Wenger admits moulding a winning team out of his inexperienced current crop is proving a massive task.

"It is the biggest challenge of my career because I am desperate to bring them as far as they can go and I feel there is a lot of potential in there," he told the League Managers' Association's website.

"I have to make them realise that a sports life passes quickly and that you have to quickly be mature.

"The second thing is not to lose the belief, because this year of course we didn't win anything, and come back next season with the great belief that they can do well."

He added: "To be a professional and a young player is to learn as well how to deal with disappointment.

"This year we had a massive disappointment, I feel overall, especially in going out of the Champions League the way we went out.

"But it's part of a growing process as well to handle this kind of disappointment and to still not let your disappointment stop your progression."

BENDTNER CAN BE GREAT - LAURSEN

2007-04-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

On-loan Birmingham striker Nicklas Bendtner is being tipped by his Denmark team-mate and Aston Villa defender Martin Laursen to be a star of the future - so long as he does not get carried away by his current success.

Bendtner is due to return to Arsenal at the end of the season after playing a major role in helping Birmingham to the top of the Coca-Cola Championship with just two games remaining.

He has also quickly made his mark with his country after breaking into the senior squad this season and last month scored the winner against Germany.

But the 19-year-old is not lacking in self-confidence and Laursen warned it is important he keeps his feet firmly on the ground.

Laursen said: "Nicklas is big and strong and quick and can become a very good player but it is always dangerous for a young player like him.

"He is only 19. I didn't have a contract when I was 19. He is already playing for Denmark and is at Arsenal.

"If he can keep his feet nicely on the ground, and work hard and take advice from the older players, then he can become a very good player.

"But it is always dangerous with the young players when they come through that they lose their head, think they are better than they are and don't have to learn anymore.

"They think 'I am here and that's enough. I am good'. He can be a great footballer if he can work hard and keep his feet on the ground."

Laursen believes Bendtner might find it more beneficial to go out on loan again next season if he is not going to figure prominently for the Gunners.

BIANCHERI WANTS ARSENAL ROLE

2007-04-24T11:44:00.002-07:00

Former Monaco general manager Henri Biancheri is ready to answer Arsene Wenger's SOS and become Arsenal's first ever director of football.

Manager Wenger this week revealed he is keen for the club to establish such a position in the wake of vice-chairman David Dein's shock departure.

Biancheri spent 19 years in a similar role at Monaco, helping Wenger sign Thierry Henry when the Gunners boss was manager of the French club.

Part of Dein's duties at Arsenal involved player recruitment, a responsibility Wenger does not want to take on himself.

"I am very good friends with Arsene and he knows what my value is," said Biancheri, who parted company with Monaco earlier this season.

"I am open to whatever propositions or proposals he may have," Biancheri told the Guardian.

The 74-year-old is credited with discovering Franck Ribery for Marseille and David Trezeguet and Philippe Christanval for Monaco.

Tottenham sporting director Damien Comolli, who also has a long-standing association with Wenger, yesterday insisted he has no interest in leaving White Hart Lane for the Emirates Stadium.

CESC HOPES TO STAY WITH ARSENAL

2007-04-24T11:44:00.001-07:00

Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas believes Arsene Wenger will remain Gunners boss despite recent unrest surrounding the club.

The Catalan youngster told Spanish media he is "very bound" to the French coach and plans to remain with Arsenal despite being unsure of his own future and interest from his homeland.

"One of the reasons why I am at Arsenal is Wenger. He (Wenger) has said that is going to fulfil his contract and I trust his word," Fabregas said.

"I would like to return to Spanish football, but before I must finish my time in England. Now, my plans are to stay in London.

"I am very happy here. I am enjoying playing football. We have not had good results but we have played well."

Asked about Real Madrid's reported interest, the former Barcelona trainee told Marca: "I don't know what is going to happen. I don't know if they (Arsenal) are going to sell me, but I am very happy here.

"I am very bound to the coach (Wenger) and I think that he will continue."

Wenger's future was brought into question last week when vice-chairman David Dein left the club amid reported takeover interest from American Stan Kroenke.

Arsenal's minority shareholders are likely to prove crucial to any potential takeover bid by Kroenke.

Speculation that the Gunners are set to be the next target for heavy investment from the United States has continued after Kroenke Sports Enterprises upped their stake to 12.19%.

The involvement of the American billionaire is understood to be the main reason behind the "irreconcilable differences" between Dein and the rest of the Arsenal board.

GAEL READY TO BLOW DOWN COTTAGERS

2007-04-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Arsenal full-back Gael Clichy has told Fulham not to expect easy points in their fight against relegation when Lawrie Sanchez takes his side to the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners are virtually assured of a Champions League place next season but need a point on Sunday to make absolutely sure, while overtaking Liverpool in third would mean more prize money for the club.

They could have secured a top-four finish with a win against rivals Tottenham at the weekend but conceded an equaliser deep in injury-time when Jermaine Jenas struck.

"We were looking forward to getting the three points on Saturday so we could have been through to next season's Champions League," said Clichy.

"But now everyone needs to be focused for the next game against Fulham so we can qualify. We need to do that for ourselves and for our fans."

Clichy's determination may be bad news for Fulham, who are hovering three points above the bottom three and are without a win in their last eight Barclays Premiership games.

The 21-year-old Frenchman insists the Gunners will also be going full throttle in their final two games of the season, against Chelsea and Portsmouth, even if they seal a top-four place on Sunday.

He added on club website www.arsenal.com: "Most of the time when you think you have done it that is when the worst can happen.

"So we have to be concentrated. When you play for a big club like Arsenal you have to play until the end.

"Even if we qualify before the Chelsea and Portsmouth games then we have to keep going in them for us and for the fans."

WENGER - THERE WILL BE CHANGES

2007-04-22T10:56:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger admits there are likely to be changes behind the scenes at Arsenal this summer rather than to his squad.

Following the departure of David Dein as vice-chairman, Wenger has spoken of putting a director of football in place to work alongside.

"It will happen but at the moment I haven't made any calls," said the Frenchman.

A new man would assume Dein's negotiating duties - Wenger calls it "the ugly part" - in a structure that mirrors rivals Tottenham who have Damien Comolli in place.

However, Wenger is not expecting a busy summer of recruitment and is intending to rely on the players who were leading until the final seconds at White Hart Lane when Jermaine Jenas levelled.

They will also be bolstered by Thierry Henry, Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott returning from injury.

"We will not change the team, it will remain what it is at the moment and we get injured players back," said Wenger. "The needed quality is there. Sometimes it is intelligent not to try too much to improve."

A player linked with a move away from Arsenal was at the centre of attention when they conceded the opener to Spurs.

Jens Lehmann jostled with Dimitar Berbatov prior to a corner, with accusations of the German goalkeeper using an elbow.

"I spoke to the linesman at half-time and he said to me that Jens put the elbow in the face of the player," Wenger said. "If he has, he shouldn't have done it.

"Sometimes I feel he is not protected by referees at all on corners. They stand on his feet and don't see it, it hurts a lot and that happens to him a lot.

"Sometimes he over-reacts but overall I don't think he gets the same protection as some other keepers."

Lehmann, Berbatov and Abou Diaby were all punished with a yellow card at the time, making further sanctions by the Football Association problematic.

When Jenas eventually swung over the corner it was headed over the line by Robbie Keane.

The Gunners then pushed forward and hit the woodwork three times before Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor put them ahead.

Both goals came from free-kicks delivered by Cesc Fabregas, the imperious Spain midfielder who Wenger believes will get better when he bulks up.

"Defensively he can get much better," Wenger said. "Physically there is still an injection of power to come between 20 and 22. That comes in and you become a finished man."

Jenas, Fabregas' opposite number in the Spurs midfield, then fired home with seconds remaining to earn a point.

The 24-year-old is approaching double figures for goals this season and is looking to help Spurs qualify for Europe with a top-seven finish in the Premiership.

He feels that Spurs are closing the gap on Arsenal since he arrived from Newcastle towards the start of last season.

"We definitely feel that as a team we are getting closer," he said. "That's the progression we need to make for next season - we've got to all get together and say 'we've been good enough to get in these position now we've got to be good enough to do what the Uniteds, Arsenals and Chelseas do and that's kill off games'."

Spurs have not beaten Arsenal since 1999 but boss Martin Jol also feels the gap is closing, even though expectations at the rivals clubs may be different.

"Arsenal would like to achieve a bit more," the Dutchman said. "They are fourth in the league but they will be disappointed with that.

"They are still a bit better than us, because they are fourth in the league, but I'm sure next season that with all the talent they have, they will want to be champions."

WENGER TO CHOOSE DEIN SUCCESSOR

2007-04-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger claims he will choose the man to fill the void left by Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein.

Dein left the Emirates Stadium this week due to "irreconcilable differences" with the rest of the Gunners board.

He was instrumental in Wenger's appointment as manager just over 10 years ago and played a key role behind the scenes in terms of player acquistion.

Now Wenger has revealed those duties will be taken on by a new director of football, the first in the club's history.

"There will definitely be a director of football coming and it will definitely be my choice," Wenger said.

"That is something I will be looking at soon. At the moment I am doing both jobs - the one that David Dein used to do and my own.

"I was in a good position before because I would handle the football side and David would do the ugly stuff, the business.

"Now it's all down to me. It's difficult because that side of it is very time-consuming."

Meanwhile, it appears Dein will be forced to quit as chairman of G-14, the cartel of Europe's 18 biggest clubs.

Dein only took the role in October but his Arsenal exit has made his position virtually untenable, according to AC Milan sporting director Umberto Gandini.

"There is not a single chance that David can stay in his post unless all 18 clubs decide to change the statutes, which I think is unlikely," Gandini said in the News of the World.

"If he is no longer a representative of a club, he will have to resign."

Dein's Gunners departure could also lose him his place on the Football Association's international committee, which is responsible for the appointment of the England manager.

WENGER KEEPS FOCUS ON DERBY

2007-04-20T11:39:00.003-07:00

Arsenal's first test of their reaction to the fall-out of David Dein's enforced departure will come at the home of deadly rivals Tottenham.

The Gunners play at White Hart Lane on Saturday with the shock of Dein's sudden exit still reverberating.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has expressed his "huge disappointment" at Dein leaving, but now has to try to prevent the disruption off the pitch spilling over on to the field of play.

Wenger, who attended an Arsenal board meeting where he is understood to have asked the directors about their future plans, said: "It is a sad day for Arsenal Football Club.

"It is a huge disappointment because we worked very closely together. David has contributed highly to the success of the club in the last 10 years and even before that as well. Red and white are the colours of his heart."

Dein is thought to be considering a joint takeover bid with American billionaire Stan Kroenke.

Wenger insisted however he was on good terms with the other directors.

He said: "My position is that I am linked with the club very strongly. The relationship with the rest [of the board] has always been very good and we try always to have a good understanding."

The involvement of Kroenke was the reason behind Dein's split with the rest of the Arsenal board - he was in favour of the American taking on a major role at the club, while the other directors were against such a move.

Friends of Dein say he is taking time to consider his next move - he still owns 14% of the club - but the natural step would be to team up with Kroenke, who has an 11% shareholding.

In terms of the match, Cesc Fabregas is 50-50 after coming down with a virus while Freddie Ljungberg is also doubtful with a hamstring injury.

Wenger added: "Cesc has a little sickness. He will have a test to see how he feels. As it stand he is 50-50. We will not gamble on him. He is not injured but he has caught a virus.

"Freddie Ljungberg is a major doubt as well but we have not lost anybody else from Tuesday."

HILL-WOOD HITS OUT AT KROENKE

2007-04-20T11:39:00.002-07:00

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood insists the club's board will resist any hostile American takeover "with all their might".

The Gunners are still reeling from vice-chairman David Dein's enforced departure from the club. Dein was understood to favour increased involvement for US billionaire Stan Kroenke, who already has an 11% stake in the club.

Hill-Wood and his fellow directors made an undertaking on Wednesday not to sell any shares in the club for at least a year in a bid to provide stability and ward off any possibility of a takeover.

Dein, who Hill-Wood claims is "in league" with Kroenke, is thought to be considering a joint takeover bid with the American but Hill-Wood is determined to block it and "keep Arsenal English".

He told the Daily Express: "I don't know for certain if Kroenke will mount a hostile takeover, but we shall resist it with all our might.

"I am not complacent at all, but we don't need his money and I'll tell you why. Everyone talks about our new stadium as a handicap to finance for new players, but the move to the Emirates is well-funded.

"Everyone thinks it has created a huge deficit but it hasn't as we have a massive asset on a 25-year fixed-rate loan."

Hill-Wood insists any takeover would not make a significant difference to the amount of money manager Arsene Wenger would have to spend.

"We are all being seduced that the Americans will ride into town with pots of cash for new players. It simply isn't the case," he added.

"He would have to spend a fortune to buy the club, he has already spent millions acquiring shares, so who thinks he is then going to spend fortunes on players?

"Take it from me, he won't be doing that after spending millions buying up shares."

WENGER COY ON LONG-TERM FUTURE

2007-04-20T11:39:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger has refused to look beyond the end of his Arsenal contract in response to reports he could be considering his future at the club following the shock departure of vice-chairman David Dein.

Dein brought Wenger to the club in September, 1996 and, in his first press conference since the loss of someone he called "a man of class and intelligence", Wenger stated: "I said I committed to the club and to the contract to 2008.

"I will try to give my best as long as I am here. I have one-and-a-half years [on my] contract - therefore I always feel we have the interest of our fans in mind.

"I will always give my best for the club and I am committed to do that."

He added: "I do not want to speak about beyond my contract because I think it is important to concentrate on the short term and to the end of the season."

Wenger, who insisted "at a big club you have to deal with all kinds of adversity", claimed Dein had "contributed hugely to the success of this club and I think English football".

He told a press conference televised live by Sky Sports News: "It is a disappointment and a big loss. David always at heart had the best interest of the club.

"Even if I am very sad it is important to keep the best interest of the club in mind.

"We have many young players and I want to develop this team and go as high up as we can.

"I don't want speculation; you could talk about the consequences a lot."

Wenger admitted he was "confident" the Arsenal board were listening to him following Dein's departure.

"Yes, I am confident. The history of this club makes me think they have trusted David and myself to make decisions on important issues. We had a great partnership but now we have to focus on tomorrow."

Asked if he had turned his thoughts towards a new football director coming in, the Frenchman added: "I have to think about that problem and what is the best solution. I will need some help but I do not really know at the moment.

"It is important the stability is maintained and it will be."

The involvement of billionaire Stan Kroenke is understood to be the reason behind Dein's split with the rest of the Arsenal board - he was in favour of the American taking on a major role at the club, while the other directors were against such a move.

WENGER WANTS TO BUILD ARSENAL

2007-04-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger maintains it's his responsibility not to "destroy" all the hard work of the past decade put in by himself and former vice-chairman David Dein at Arsenal.

After the shock departure of his strongest ally from the board earlier this week, it was suggested the French coach was about to follow Dein out of Emirates Stadium in the summer.

However, Wenger - who still has 15 months left on his current deal - insisted he remained ever committed to the Arsenal cause and keeping the club "stable".

He said: "I have a responsibility towards the club and the fans, and I want to stand up for that.

"For me to destroy the work we have done together now would be stupid.

"The last person who would want to do that is David, because he acted always in the interests of Arsenal Football Club.

"The interests of Arsenal Football Club are to continue to be stable, to develop and go on.

"In the short-term, I feel we can deal with that situation.

"In the longer-term, David will have to be replaced."

The involvement of billionaire Stan Kroenke is understood to be the reason behind Dein's split with the rest of the Arsenal board - he was in favour of the American taking on a major role at the club, while the other directors were against such a move.

The former Football Association vice-chairman still holds around 14% of shares in the parent company of the Gunners, estimated to be worth approximately ฃ60million.

Dein is thought to be considering a joint takeover bid with the KSE group, which recently upped their stake to just over 12% in the club.

Whatever the future holds, Wenger feels Arsenal have "lost a man of class, intelligence and competence who has contributed highly to the success and the development of the club and brought English football into the modern era".

WENGER UNDERSTANDS FAN REACTION

2007-04-18T13:07:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger can understand the frustrations of Arsenal's fans when things do not go all their own way.

The Gunners moved up, temporarily at least, into third place in the Barclays Premiership following a 3-1 win over Manchester City at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.

Despite sweeping into the lead through Tomas Rosicky after just 12 minutes, Arsenal were frustrated for long spells by a determined City side who levelled before the break through DaMarcus Beasley.

Inspired by a brilliant 25-yard strike from Cesc Fabregas, Wenger's men finally got back in control and wrapped up the three points when Julio Baptista netted with 10 minutes left.

However, there were spells during the match when sections of the home faithful got on the back of the team.

Wenger fully understands. The Arsenal manager said: "The crowd does not irritate me, no.

"With a professional player you have to deal with that.

"People coming here pay good money and sometimes they let their frustration out.

"People are impatient. They want to win. When we do not win as quickly as they want, they get frustrated.

"It is down to us to transport them to a different world."

City boss Stuart Pearce believes the constant demand for success can prove a double-edged sword.

He said: "That is the nature of the Premiership now.

"I do not think there is a team this year that has not been booed at home at some stage. Probably Manchester United and Chelsea might be the exception, but the rest of us have all experienced it where they do not know when the next win is coming.

"Sometimes there is a bigger picture, but people pay good money."

Pearce quipped: "The next time I go to the theatre I am going to let some thespians have it. It might make me feel better and then I will claim I pay their wages when I leave."

Fabregas doubled his tally of league goals with a fine volley to cap a memorable few days for the 19-year-old, who also netted against Bolton on Saturday and was nominated for both the PFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards.

Wednesday's victory also all but secures Arsenal's place in the Champions League again next season - a fitting stage for the young midfielder to continue to display his talents.

"There is more to come from him," declared Wenger, who has used Fabregas no fewer than 50 times this season.

GILBERTO LAYS IT ON LINE

2007-04-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

Arsenal captain Gilberto has called on his team-mates "not to relax for one minute" when they head to arch-rivals Tottenham looking to secure a top-four finish in the Barclays Premiership.

The Gunners beat Manchester City 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night to open up an eight-point gap on the chasing pack and take them, temporarily at least, above Liverpool into third.

After the trip to White Hart Lane on Saturday, there are two home games - against Fulham and title-chasing Chelsea - to come before the final match at Portsmouth.

The clash with City on Tuesday night had an end-of-season feel about it as both teams appeared to go through the motions at times.

Gilberto, though, knows there will be no such luxury afforded Arsenal in the 155th north London derby.

"I played there when we won the league in 2004 - and although many of the players have now left, the traditions of the match are still the same," said Gilberto, standing in for the injured Thierry Henry.

"We will need to keep our minds strong because this is the kind of game where you do not have time to relax for one minute.

"We know in the matches against Tottenham if we do not play at 100% then it will be difficult.

"It is important to keep our concentration high over all of the final four games."

Gilberto added: "Against City, it looked a bit strange. After our first goal, we relaxed a little bit.

"Sometimes we can play very nice football and draw or lose. Against City, we did not play our best, but got three points.

"We have been in transition and it has been so hard for us, there have been some bad times this year.

"But I really believe that for next season the young players in the squad will have grown in confidence and experience.

"They will be stronger than we have been in the last two years."

One young man key to Arsenal's future success is midfielder Cesc Fabregas.

The 19-year-old crashed in a stunning effort to spark a second-half revival last night - doubling his Premiership tally for the season having finally got off the mark against Bolton.

"I have not really played with a young player as good as he is," said Gilberto of the Spaniard, who is nominated for both the PFA Player of the Year awards this weekend.

"Ever since he came into the starting XI, he has done so well.

"He has a great quality in his passing and vision and now he is scoring goals as well.

"I have played alongside Patrick Vieira, who was a great player and one who was very experienced. Cesc has done so well to replace him.

"He has a lot of talent and although it takes time, he can be one of the best."

The future of goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, 37, who was guilty of a mistake which led to City's equaliser on Tuesday night, is expected to be resolved imminently.

ARSENAL MYSTERY AS DEIN QUITS

2007-04-18T12:40:00.001-07:00

The long-term future of Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was tonight left uncertain following the shock departure of his biggest ally vice-chairman David Dein because of "irreconcilable differences" with the rest of the current board.

Dein, 63, has left the club and will cease to be a director with immediate effect.

However, the former Football Association vice-chairman holds around 14% of shares in the parent company of the Gunners, estimated to be worth around ฃ57million.

A statement from Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood read: "On behalf of the board I would like to express our gratitude to David Dein for the many years of loyal service he has given to the club.

"We sincerely regret that irreconcilable differences between Mr Dein and the rest of the board have necessitated a parting of the ways."

Those differences are understood to be over the direction and ownership of the club, with Dein known to be very much in favour of the involvement of American billionaire Stan Kroenke, which put him at odds with Arsenal director Danny Fiszman and also Hill-Wood.

Speculation continues surrounding a potential takeover from American-based Kroenke Sports Enterprises, who recently bought just over an 11% stake in the club - which included a small holding purchased indirectly off Fiszman, who maintained he was unaware of the buyer.

Hill-Wood, however, maintained the board would be "horrified" to see complete ownership move across the Atlantic.

Should the KSE group - which has interests in several successful sports US clubs - obtain a 30% threshold in Arsenal, then under the Stock Exchange rules, the American tycoon would be able to launch a takeover bid of the Barclays Premiership outfit.

However, the statement from Arsenal continued: "In light of recent speculation with regards to the ownership of the club, the remaining board members, who together own 45.45% of the issued share capital of the company, would like to reassure the supporters, shareholders and employees of Arsenal Football Club that they remain long-term holders of their interests in the club.

"To this effect, they have entered into an agreement not to dispose of their shares for at least one year and have confirmed that they intend to retain their interests on the expiration of this period."

Dein - currently the chairman of the G-14 group of elite European clubs - was behind the appointment of the then little known French coach Wenger to the manager's job in 1996.

The pair remain close friends, with the Gunners having enjoyed unprecedented success in the last decade with three Premier League titles and four FA Cup wins.

Arsenal reached the Champions League final last season, losing to Barcelona in Paris, but have struggled to sustain such success this term.

A run to the Carling Cup final was followed by an early exit from both the FA Cup and then Champions League.

However, successive wins this week have put the Gunners back on track to finish in the top four again and with it secure elite level European football at the ฃ357million Emirates Stadium - crucial to the continued financial stability of the club.

HENRY SUPPORT FOR SCHOLES CASE

2007-04-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

Thierry Henry knows a thing or two about what it takes to earn the respect of your fellow pros to be crowned PFA Player of the Year - and reckons Paul Scholes has the game to top everyone this season.

The Arsenal captain was the winner of the prestigious accolade in both 2003 and 2004.

Manchester United midfielder Scholes, 32, is on the six-man shortlist along with Henry's team-mate Cesc Fabregas, Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, Christiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and last year's winner Steven Gerrard.

United winger Ronaldo, 22, is the bookmakers favourite and, like Fabregas, is also nominated for the PFA's young player award.

For Henry, however, it is the contribution former England international Scholes has made following his return to fitness with the Barclays Premiership leaders after a long lay off because of blurred vision which stands him out this season.

"Good luck to Cesc, but obviously I am not allowed to vote for a team-mate, my vote went to Paul Scholes," said the Arsenal captain.

"You saw how much Manchester United missed him last season, and you have seen what a difference he has made when he has come back this year."

Henry - currently sidelined himself through injury - has, though, been impressed by the form of Ronaldo.

He added: "If Cristiano Ronaldo does not win the main award, I think he should take the young player award.

"All he was missing was goals and assists - but he has added that this year so I would be very surprised if he does not win it."

Fabregas helped Arsenal secure a 3-1 win over Manchester City last night to stay on course for Champions League qualification again.

It was his second Premiership goal in the space of four days - which doubled his tally for the whole campaign.

Henry said: "Cesc has had a fantastic season, and although he had not scored in the league before the Bolton game, he had been involved in so many goals for us.

"But for him, it was playing on his mind. Going one month or two without scoring starts to play on your mind - but eight months? It must have been on his shoulders."

Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney, a two-time PFA winner, is also nominated again in the young player category.

Reading striker Kevin Doyle, 23, Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon, 19, and 18-year-old defender Micah Richards, of Manchester City, complete the shortlist.

UNITED TRIO TOP AWARDS SHORTLIST

2007-04-16T11:50:00.002-07:00

Barclays Premiership leaders Manchester United dominate the nominations for the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year award, with man of the moment Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes all making the six-man shortlist.

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, the 2006 winner, complete the contenders for the prestigious award, which will be presented on April 22.

Portuguese winger Ronaldo, 22, and Fabregas, 19, are also in the hunt for the PFA's Young Player of the Year award.

Manchester United and England forward Wayne Rooney, 21, will be looking for a hat-trick, having won the accolade in both 2005 and 2006.

Reading striker Kevin Doyle, 23, Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon, 19, and 18-year-old defender Micah Richards, of Manchester City, who won his first England caps this season, are the other nominees.

Ronaldo will have come full circle if he is crowned at a gala dinner in London on Sunday night.

The brilliant 22-year-old Portugal winger has been in stunning form for Manchester United this season, and was rewarded with a new, five-year contract to finally quash rumours of a multi-million pound move to Spain.

Ronaldo, however, had faced an uncertain future following the adverse publicity he received for his part in England's World Cup demise during the summer.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson spoke to the midfielder personally about the situation, and has since praised the talented young man for having "the nerve to handle it", letting his superb football do the talking and drown out the jeers in what has become a potent attacking partnership with, ironically, England striker Wayne Rooney.

Ronaldo took his goals tally to 21 following a strike in the FA Cup semi-final win over Watford and last week's double in the Champions League rout of AS Roma at Old Trafford.

And on current form, there seems little anyone can do to stop him.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor hailed Ronaldo as "the "most exciting player in the country".

He said: "This season was a big test for him, both of his temperament and his ability to rise above the abuse he received after the incident with Wayne Rooney at the World Cup - and he has passed with flying colours in every department.

"I was not sure after the World Cup if things would get back to normal at Old Trafford, but Cristiano has shown great maturity and proved himself to be a top, top player.

"All credit to Sir Alex Ferguson for resolving what was a difficult situation. All credit to Cristiano too because he has developed from a player who perhaps used to run down too many closed avenues in his early days at United, to a wonderful entertainer whose tricks and skills are much more constructive, and productive, these days.

"He is much more of a team player now and, as is the test of all great forwards, he knows how to find the back of the net.

"He has still got all the tricks and, if he was to perform them on the stage at the London Palladium, you would have to stand up and applaud.

"For him to be able to perform them on a football field, at full speed with everything going on around him, makes it all the more remarkable and it is great that Sir Alex continues to encourage him to do so, whereas at some clubs he might have been told to 'keep it simple'."

Rooney, 21, will be looking for a hat-trick of Young Player awards, having won the accolade in both 2005 and 2006.

Taylor said: "Wayne is willing to have a go in whatever position he is asked to play, and will come through.

"Because he is such an awesome talent it is not automatic that he will play well in every game, and it is wrong for people to expect him to score hat-tricks every time. Football does not work like that.

PEARCE HAS DOUBT OVER MPENZA

2007-04-16T11:50:00.001-07:00

Emile Mpenza is manager Stuart Pearce's main fitness concern ahead of Manchester City's Barclays Premiership trip to Arsenal on Tuesday night.

The Belgian striker, who looks set to earn a permanent deal to stay with the Eastlands outfit, suffered a bang on the hip in Saturday's goalless draw with Liverpool, although Pearce will give Mpenza every chance to play.

Having beaten the Gunners on home soil already this term, City are aiming to complete their first domestic double over Arsenal in 31 years.

Arsenal will be without Freddie Ljungberg for the visit of Pearce's side.

The Sweden midfielder injured his hamstring against Bolton on Saturday, so either Julio Baptista or Abou Diaby are likely to come into the starting XI, depending on the formation.

Captain Thierry Henry (groin and stomach), Robin van Persie (broken foot) and Theo Walcott (shoulder) are all sidelined.

FABREGAS STILL ON LEARNING CURVE

2007-04-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

Arsenal captain Gilberto believes PFA players' player of the year candidate Cesc Fabregas can go on to become an all-time great - if he continues to learn from those around him.

The 19-year-old Spain midfielder has been shortlisted for both the main accolade and also the PFA young player award, which will be announced following a gala dinner in London on Sunday night.

Fabregas has been a consistent performer in a disappointing season for the Gunners, who reached the Carling Cup final, but then crashed out of the FA Cup and Champions League.

Having played some part in each of Arsenal's 33 Barclays Premiership matches this season, Fabregas finally got himself on the scoresheet to seal the 2-1 win over Bolton on Saturday.

Brazilian Gilberto, 30, has been alongside the youngster for most of the campaign and believes Fabregas has the attributes to take his game to another level through more hard work.

"Cesc can be one of the best in his position. It is just down to him to continue the way he is playing and try to learn more," said Gilberto, who is set to skipper the side again tomorrow against Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium.

"Sometimes you need to play more with your brain than with your power, to read the game all of the time.

"But if he can learn that, quickly, then he can be one of the best."

The Brazilian, who won the World Cup in 2002, added: "I speak to him, especially on the pitch when we play together.

"I try to position him in the right place. When you are young, you want to run more than position yourself in the right place.

"Cesc is learning. He is young, it takes time. Next season he can develop himself more than he has done."

Fabregas is not the only Arsenal youngster to have earned themselves an extended run in the first team.

Manager Arsene Wenger remains convinced this squad have the potential to again challenge for the Premiership crown and further European glory.

It has, however, been a steep learning curve for his young Gunners.

Gilberto said: "For the past two seasons a lot of young players have come through, and they need time to grow in themselves, to develop.

"However, when you play for a big team like Arsenal, you do not have time - especially if you are the first option of the manager. But they have done very well.

"What we expect next season is that they will be stronger and they will get a lot more experience from the painful time we are having together."

Arsenal's victory over Bolton tightened their grip on fourth place in the Premiership following a four-match winless run.

With a five-point gap on the sides below them, beating City should all but secure another crack at elite level European club football again next season.

However, Gilberto - stand-in captain for injured Thierry Henry - knows the team must remain focused, having gone behind to Bolton, an all-too-familiar story at the Emirates.

He said: "Sometimes you need to relax in front of goal. We have to keep going because we have another important game now against Manchester City."

WENGER HAILS STRONG GUNNERS

2007-04-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger praised the "mental strength" of his Arsenal side as they returned to winning ways following a 2-1 victory over Bolton.

The Gunners had to once again come from behind at Emirates Stadium, after Nicolas Anelka had netted against his old club.

Tomas Rosicky levelled and Cesc Fabregas struck just 44 seconds after the restart to turn the match in the home side's favour.

With their lead over the Trotters now up to five points and holding a match in hand - at home to Manchester City on Tuesday night - a return to top-level European club football next season looks more secure.

Wenger said: "It is a big step. To lose the game today would have put us in a bad situation.

"I feel I am happy with the performance of the team and happy with the mental strength we have shown because we were 1-0 down and we come back to win.

"I got a quick response and we got chance after chance and in fairness we outplayed Bolton through the pace of our passing.

"But overall, scoring 2-1 in the second half, we had a handbrake on our finishing after that and that is maybe why we did not score three or four."

It has been a difficult couple of months for Arsenal, who lost the Carling Cup final to Chelsea and then crashed out of both the FA Cup and Champions League.

Captain Thierry Henry, fellow marksmen Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott are all out injured, adding to Wenger's problems, his side having failed to won for the previous four games.

"With a team you live in a tunnel and sometimes you have to experience going down and flirting with Hell to see how much you can deal with that to become stronger," Wenger said.

"We had a disappointing three or four weeks and I am very well with how the team has responded.

"I respect the way they have behaved in the last three weeks, even if they were most painful three weeks of the season."

Bolton had Ivan Campo was sent off late on for two yellow cards - and could have been awarded a penalty when the ball bounced up to Emmanuel Eboue's arm, but referee Rob Styles waved away the appeals.

Manager Sam Allardyce lamented the way his side lost their grip on the game.

He said: "We just conceded too much ground and stopped playing for some strange reason.

FOURTH IS LEAST WE CAN DO - WENGER

2007-04-13T12:05:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger fully expects Arsenal to meet their "minimum requirement" of finishing fourth in the Premiership by holding off the challenge of Champions League pretenders Bolton.

The Gunners have seen their campaign unravel over the last two months following defeat in the Carling Cup final and an early exit from both the FA Cup and Europe.

Although they still have a match in hand, the lead over fifth place is now just two points.

Wenger, however, is not considering anything other than qualification for the elite club competition once again.

"It is the minimum target we want to reach at the start of every season, and it will be like that every year," said the Arsenal manager ahead of Saturday's visit of Bolton.

"It is the minimum target because you want to win every trophy you play for.

"You want to be in the Champions League again and to win it next year you have to be in.

"We want to be there and nobody else so I do not worry about what will happen if they get in.

"In England, you have the potential of 10 massive clubs and they will not always be asleep.

"To smash in and compete in the top four, you will now have Aston Villa, Newcastle, Tottenham. They are all big clubs with the same potential as Arsenal.

"Bolton? I do not know whether they have the same potential fans as, say, Newcastle.

"If Newcastle have a good team, they would get 60,000 people every week."

While the UEFA Cup would again be an achievement in itself for Bolton - who were not so long ago playing at Burnden Park and scraping around the lower leagues - it would be a massive blow were the Gunners to fail to reach the Champions League for the first time in a decade.

Their new 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium is certainly a venue befitting top-flight European football and all the extra income that brings.

Wenger, though, is focused on the here and now, rather than what may or may not happen down the line.

He added: "You can always adapt the revenue, the most important thing is that you have a good team and that you achieve what you want to achieve.

"We have never gone bust, we always adjust to what we face.

"At the moment I focus on tomorrow's game and the consequence of if, if, if - that does not work.

"You focus on doing well tomorrow. Why worry about after tomorrow?"

The Trotters have proved stubborn opponents for Arsenal in recent seasons.

Wenger's men were beaten 3-1 at the Reebok in November but won their FA Cup replay at the same venue by the same score in February.

"It is a big game against a direct rival," Wenger added.

"They have good players, good strikers and a direct style which they will use.

"We play at home, we know we can beat them and just focus on playing well."

TAKEOVER TALK WON'T AFFECT US - WENGER

2007-04-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger insists it is business as usual at Arsenal despite continued speculation surrounding a potential takeover by American billionaire Stan Kroenke.

US-based Kroenke Sports Enterprise have a total stake of just over 11% in the Premiership club following purchases from ITV and, indirectly, director Danny Fiszman.

KSE - who also have interests in the likes of American football franchise St Louis Rams, NBA side Denver Nuggets and the NHL's Colorado Avalanche - already had an "innovative strategic relationship" with the Gunners via their Major League Soccer club Colorado Rapids.

Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein owns 13% of the club and has never indicated he would wish to sell up.

However, with his holding now reduced to 24.11%, if Geneva-based tax exile Fiszman chose to sell his entire stock to KSE that would take them well over the 30% threshold needed to launch a formal takeover bid for the club.

Earlier this week chairman Peter Hill-Wood admitted the board were "in the dark" over what Kroenke may have planed for Arsenal.

Wenger, though, remains pragmatic about the whole situation.

He said: "The chairman has said two things; one is he does not really know the intentions of this guy and two is that he is determined to keep the club under control with the board he has.

"That means 10% of shares have moved from one pocket to another, but that does not change the life inside the club nor would it affect the area where decisions are taken."

Wenger, meanwhile, revealed it would not be long before an announcement was made on both the futures of on-loan forward Julio Baptista and goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, who is out of contract this summer.

He added: "There is nothing decided with Baptista. I will make a decision on that at the end of April.

"The fact that he has not scored recently is down to the team's overall disappointment and that we are a little bit low, less spontaneous in our offensive game and therefore you will suffer in your offensive game."

The club are thought to be only offering a further 12-month contract to veteran German international Lehmann, 37.

WE CAN CLAIM FOURTH - WENGER

2007-04-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger backed his players to complete their Champions League mission despite being held to a goalless draw at Newcastle.

The Gunners started the day two points clear of Bolton in fourth place and ended it in exactly the same position after Sam Allardyce's side drew 1-1 with Everton.

Asked if he felt his side - they play Bolton next weekend - would hang on to their place in the top four, Wenger replied: "I feel yes because they (Bolton) had a good opportunity today to come back to us and they played a 1-1 draw against Everton.

"That keeps them a fair distance. It is down to how we do.

"For the club, it is very important, for the players, for everybody inside the club and everybody who loves the club.

"We are used to being there and we want to do it again."

Arsenal might have eased further ahead of their closest challengers had Nolberto Solano not produced a superb double goal-line clearance.

However, James Milner had earlier hit Jens Lehmann's crossbar and the Magpies had strong appeals for a penalty waved away by referee Howard Webb in a late flurry of activity.

But Wenger left the north-east reasonably happy with his lot after seeing his players end a run of three successive Barclays Premiership defeats.

He said: "We wanted to win the game and we could have maybe nicked a 1-0, but they saved one on the line and they could have scored as well at the end.

"Both teams had good defensive performances and it was a game of few chances.

"For us after three defeats, it was important not to lose, and maybe it could be a good point at the end of the season."

However, opposite number Glenn Roeder was furious that Webb had not presented his side with a chance to win the game in injury time when Abou Diaby appeared to wrestle Oguchi Onyewu off the ball from a Milner free-kick despite delaying the set-piece to warn him about his manhandling of the defender.

He said: "Did I think we might have had a penalty? That is the understatement of the year. Shirts get changed at the end of the game, don't they, not during the game?

"Howard Webb is a fine referee, but I saw him do that recently in a Championship game at Leicester.

"It is a rugby tackle and you cannot do that in football, it is not allowed.

"It just needs bravery and courage to blow the whistle and point to the spot and unfortunately, he pulled up short.

"He did that to us earlier this year at Bolton when Peter Ramage was clearly pushed in the back for Bolton's equaliser, and he apologised the next time I saw him.

"He is a fine referee, though, generally, but he will be disappointed in himself when he sees it."

LEHMANN TALKS PLANNED SOON

2007-04-08T11:15:00.001-07:00

Jens Lehmann knows his future at Arsenal will soon be sorted out.

The Germany international goalkeeper turns 38 during November and is in the final months of his contract with the Gunners.

The Barclays Premiership club are understood to be standing firm on their policy of offering only 12-month extensions to senior players but Lehmann wants the security of a two-year deal.

There has been interest from teams overseas for Lehmann, who kept a record number of clean sheets en route to the Champions League final last season.

Lehmann would, though, be happy to continue his stay at Arsenal should an amicable agreement be reached in negotiations with manager Arsene Wenger and club officials.

"We will talk soon, in the next week or two," said Lehmann.

"I am not frustrated, it is business.

"I have always said I would like to play at Arsenal because I think I am certainly aware the team has potential.

"I can decide to be a part [next season]. It is my decision and I have to make the decision.

"I am on a one-year contract right now, why should I really be disappointed about another year?

"It is not about one year. If I should go somewhere else, then I would go for two years, but here it is only one year.

"It is always my decision. I can stay, of course I can stay, but I have to talk before. It is a tough decision I have to make."

Lehmann watched opposite number Robert Green produce the "game of his life" as West Ham secured a 1-0 win at Emirates Stadium yesterday - a first defeat for the Gunners at their new 60,000-seater home.

Arsenal head to Newcastle tomorrow where they will be looking to make the most of any chances which come their way - unlike against the Hammers where chance after chance went begging.

Lehmann said: "You have to cope with it and can not feel sorry for yourself.

WENGER: GUNNERS MUST START FIRING

2007-04-08T11:15:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger admits the need for Arsenal to get their bid for a top-four finish in the Barclays Premiership back on track has now become "urgent".

The Gunners suffered a third straight league defeat on Saturday when relegation battlers West Ham became the first away team to win at the Emirates Stadium.

It was an all-too-familiar story as Wenger's men created chance after chance, but could not find the back of the net and were then made to pay as Bobby Zamora struck in first-half stoppage time.

Despite still having a match in hand on the sides around them, fourth-placed Arsenal are now only two points ahead of Bolton, who visit the Emirates next weekend.

Wenger knows there is now little margin for further error in their remaining games, which continue up at Newcastle on Monday.

"Routine in football does not exist. It is just always the consequence of the quality of your performances," said Wenger, on the expectancy of Champions League football again next season.

"Of course we feel we will do it and I am convinced we will. The situation becomes very urgent."

Wenger added: "Now we just think about regrouping, and not feel sorry too much and not be down too much because in two days we have a big game again.

"It is very hard, but the team is going through a patch where if we deal well with that situation we grow old very quickly.

"That is why it is very important that we do not let ourselves down and be too negative - there were a lot of positives and now let us show that again at Newcastle."

Given the way they raced out of the blocks, Arsenal should have been out of sight by the time Zamora lobbed in what proved to be the winning goal.

West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green was a busy man, denying Cesc Fabregas inside 90 seconds and then keeping out efforts from Freddie Ljungberg and Tomas Rosicky, which really should have been put away.

When the England stopper was finally beaten midway through the second half, Fabregas saw his 18-yard strike come back of the underside of the crossbar.

Wenger accepted his squad - without injured captain Thierry Henry and marksman Robin van Persie - had lacked a cutting edge.

"We know it can happen - but the way we lost it is very difficult to accept," said the Arsenal manager.

"It shows that in football, you need everything.

"It is good to have a good game, it is a good basis - but at the end of the day as well you need to have all the qualities that make a strong team, that is all part of a quality team."

Gilberto returned to skipper the side on Saturday having missed the 4-1 thrashing at Anfield last weekend through injury.

The Brazilian was guilty of missing two great chances in the second half, heading wide from six yards and then shaving the post with a low, angled drive.

"This season has been quite frustrating for us," said the World Cup winner.

CROUCH TREBLE PUTS RAFA ON SPOT

2007-04-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has a dilemma ahead of next week's Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven following a hat-trick by Peter Crouch in the 4-1 Premiership demolition of Arsenal.

Crouch's goals - on his return from an operation on a broken nose - took his tally to the season to 16.

Now Benitez must decide whether to play the England striker next Tuesday.

"We have a very important Champions League game and I have a good selection problem after what Peter has done," he said.

"But the tactics [today] were chosen specifically to play against Arsenal. They may well be very different in Eindhoven, we will have to wait and see."

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger insisted Liverpool were "very, very big favourites" to reach the Champions League semi-finals.

He said: "Defensively our performance was horrendous. The difference was Crouch, we just did not handle him at all.

"He was the big difference. We could not cope with him in the air and his three goals all came from crosses from wide areas. He made fine runs and we never got close enough to him, and with Steven Gerrard also finding gaps between our defenders, Liverpool more than deserved to win.

"They were more mobile, sharper and determined. If we want to finish third now we will have to produce better performances than that between now and the end of the season."

Wenger's own concerns are whether his misfiring side can stay in the top four and clinch a Champions League spot.

He said: "We are not certain of being in the top four. There is not a big enough gap even if maybe my players felt they had done enough.

"That is not the case. We will have to give our best in every game now, we must win all our home matches and pick up some away wins, too."

The Frenchman added: "My players are now concerned about the situation. They did not produce what was expected."

That cannot be the case for Benitez. Crouch scored on the near post early on and then sent in a thumping header before the break.

Daniel Agger saw a glancing header from a free-kick beat Jens Lehmann - more trouble there for Arsenal in the air - before William Gallas scrambled home a consolation.

But the stage was still Crouch's. Missing from both England matches in midweek, he left England boss Steve McClaren in little doubt of the damage he can do.

His third in front of the Kop came after fine play from Dirk Kuyt and Jermaine Pennant, with the gangling striker producing clever footwork to beat Lehmann again.

VAN PERSIE SEASON IS PROBABLY OVER

2007-04-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie "is likely" to miss the rest of the season, according to manager Arsene Wenger.

Wenger was hoping the 23-year-old Holland international, who has not played since breaking a metatarsal towards the end of January, would be fit to return for the final few games of the campaign.

But Wenger said: "The end of April now looks optimistic.

"It is likely he will be out for the season."

Wenger added on Arsenal TV Online: "We have spoken to the doctors and they told us the longer you keep this kind of fracture without playing, the less chance you have of a recurrence.

"So, if he can play only one or two games then we will not take a gamble."

The loss of Van Persie has further limited Wenger's striking options, with captain Thierry Henry already ruled out for the rest of the season.

WENGER DENIES FA CHARGE

2007-04-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger knows there is little he can do but accept whatever punishment the Football Association hand out for peeived misdemeanours - yet will continue to fight Arsenal's corner when he believes the cause is just.

The Gunners, along with Chelsea, were hit with a ฃ100,000 fine for the melee which marred the end of the Carling Cup final at the Millennium Stadium.

The fall-out from that eventful afternoon in Cardiff, however, is not yet over.

Wenger has denied a charge of "improper conduct and/or bringing the game into disrepute" following his media comments relating to the incident.

Kolo Toure was shown a red card, as was Emmanuel Adebayor while the striker and Emmanuel Eboue were also punished further - something the Frenchman found hard to take.

Wenger claimed "the whole system is not honest", in reference to the disciplinary procedures of the FA, and suggestions the assistant referee "lied" in his report over the brawl.

The personal hearing is to be "scheduled in due course", with the Arsenal manager already due to meet officials following a separate charge after a half-time altercation with referee Steve Bennett during the Barclays Premiership game against Portsmouth in December.

Togo striker Adebayor is finally available again tomorrow for the trip to Liverpool after what turned out to be a four-match ban for his perceived aggressive role in the brawl - and reaction to the subsequent red card from referee Howard Webb.

Wenger may well continue to feel aggrieved by the whole saga, but accepts such is life in the English game.

"We will not appeal against the fine of the club," said the Arsenal manager.

"We always get hammered and we say 'thank you very much'.

"They have my credit card number, and we will say 'how much do you need this week? Let's do it'."

Wenger added: "Sometimes they are in a position where they have to support the wrong decisions at the FA because they have no choice.

"Like with Adebayor, we proved the decision was wrong, with an independent criminologist.

FABREGAS READY TO TAKE BREAK

2007-03-28T11:19:00.001-07:00

Cesc Fabregas knows he must take a break from action sooner or later to avoid burn-out.

The Arsenal midfielder has already chalked up more than 40 first-team appearances this season, playing in every Barclays Premiership and Champions League fixture.

Fabregas was also an integral part of the young Gunners side which reached the Carling Cup final, and lost to Chelsea at the Millennium Stadium.

The international break offers little respite for the brilliant 19-year-old, now also an established member of the Spain squad and well on his way towards 20 full caps.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger knows just what an important asset the former Barcelona trainee is and is acutely aware the dangers of over-exerting one of his key men.

Fabregas has been fortunate this season not to be hit by injury, with captain Thierry Henry sidelined for lengthy spells following his return from the World Cup.

The young Spaniard is conscious of the pitfalls which could lie ahead if he does not get a proper "rest" period.

Fabregas said: "I am looking forward to this summer, although the thing is that when we finish at Arsenal, we have international games in June and that breaks up my plans a little bit.

"Sometimes I do think I need one summer just to rest.

"I remember when I was 16 turning 17, I had seven weeks rest and I came back in pre-season refreshed and ready to go.

"That is what made the difference because I was a reserve player and I came into the first team in this period and because I had rested I had a lot of energy and power."

Fabregas told the club website, www.Arsenal.com: "You do need that rest when you are so young and you start playing so many games under a lot of pressure, especially in midfield where you have to run a lot and make a lot of tackles.

"Of course I like to play football and I will never say 'no' when I am asked to play because I love it so much.

"If I said 'no' I would feel really bad in myself - but after six or seven years of this you can get injuries so you have to be professional and take care of yourself."

The emergence of Fabregas and fellow teenager Denilson this season has fuelled speculation veteran Brazilian Gilberto could be set to leave Arsenal in the summer.

GILBERTO LAUDS 'GREAT' JUVE

2007-03-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Arsenal midfielder Gilberto has responded to speculation linking him with a move to Juventus by labelling the Turin giants a "great club".

But he admits his future is in the hands of the Gunners as he still has two years left on his contract at the Emirates.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has insisted Gilberto is going nowhere but the Brazilian has long been linked with a move to the Stadio delle Alpi, and Juventus' likely return to Serie A will only crank up the speculation.

The Gunners vice-captain said: "Juventus are a great club that want to return to winning ways.

"I have a contract until 2009, and Arsenal will decide [what happens]."

NO INTEREST IN ARSENAL - KROENKE

2007-03-26T12:53:00.002-07:00

Kroenke Sports Enterprise have "no interest or intention" of buying into Arsenal, according to a spokesman for the American company.

Although the major shareholders - which include vice chairman David Dein and director Danny Fiszman - of the Barclays Premiership club have no intention of selling up, broadcaster ITV are likely to be open to offers for their 9.9% stake in the Gunners.

With the valuation of Arsenal - their parent company listed on the alternative Plus market - currently around ฃ404million, it would represent a significant outlay for any potential investor.

US billionaire Stan Kroenke had been widely reported to be interested in acquiring the shares.

His company - Kroenke Sports Enterprise - already have an "innovative strategic relationship" with the north-London club through Major League Soccer team Colorado Rapids, and the group have a large portfolio of sports-related interests across the Atlantic.

However, any suggestions this would now be followed by KSE taking a financial stake in Arsenal have been quickly dismissed.

Jurgen Mainka, senior director of communications and international business at Colorado Rapids, said: "At this point, there is no interest or intention from KSE in buying any shares or any pieces of Arsenal Football Club or any club in the English Premier League.

"There certainly is no substance to these stories and rumours in the media which indeed started when we first announced our commercial relationship with Arsenal Football Club."

The agreement in place at the moment between the two clubs is primarily designed to help develop the Gunners brand in America, and will also see an exchange of coaching as well as commercial ideologies, with an inaugural Arsenal Cup to be held for US clubs by the Rapids this summer.

Jeff Plush, managing director of the MLS outfit, was in London recently as part of a pre-season trip to Europe, which also included a visit to Valencia in Spain.

He said: "We can certainly give to Arsenal some of our expertise in sports marketing - we own five teams, a television network and four venues.

"With them, we are frankly a more credible football club than we were."

Even though KSE are distancing themselves from any talk of a potential takeover, it was inevitable interest in Arsenal would surface sooner rather than later.

ADEBAYOR COULD QUIT TOGO

2007-03-26T12:53:00.001-07:00

Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor could retire from international football after receiving death threats.

The 22-year-old netted twice as Togo beat Sierra Leone on Saturday, but the build-up to the game was dominated by a contract wrangle between the Togolese players and officials.

Adebayor was a central figure in the row and he revealed he had received threats that he must "play in the match or else".

He told the BBC: "I am only trying to put certain things right and correct a few mistakes in Togolese football, but it appears some people do not like it.

"Now I am going to go back to Arsenal and think about my future. I have to protect my life and I have a family to look after."

ARSENAL INTEREST NO SURPRISE

2007-03-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

It was "only a matter of time" before Arsenal attracted interest as part of the "second wave" of investment in the Barclays Premiership, according to a leading football financial analyst.

Although the major shareholders - which include vice-chairman David Dein and director Danny Fiszman - have no intentions of selling up, broadcaster ITV are likely to be open to offers for their 9.9% stake in the Gunners.

With the valuation of Arsenal - their parent company listed on the alternative Plus market - currently around ฃ404million, it would represent a significant outlay for any potential investor.

US billionaire Stan Kroenke is understood to be interested in acquiring the shares.

His company - Kroenke Sports Enterprise - already has an "innovative strategic relationship" with the north-London club through Major League Soccer team Colorado Rapids and the group has a large portfolio of sports-related interests across the Atlantic.

The move from Highbury to the new 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium at Ashburton Grove this season may have cost Arsenal somewhere around ฃ390million and be an on-going financial commitment, but it has also put them in a different league in terms of match-day gate receipts and other revenue streams.

With a strong tradition, established fan base and a young side, buying into the Gunners would certainly make an attractive proposition.

With Manchester United now in the control of the Glazer family while American tycoons George Gillett and Tom Hicks have just lead a successful takeover at Liverpool, it was inevitable interest in Arsenal would surface sooner rather than later.

Vinay Bedi, football analyst at Brewin Dolphin, told PA Sport: "You can see the attractions of the Champions League clubs - and Arsenal are really the only one of those left in British ownership.

"It was only a matter of time before there was significant interest in them - whether or not anything actually happens there, we will have to wait and see. But it is certainty no surprise there is overseas interest in Arsenal."

Bedi added: "We see this as the second wave of investment in football clubs following the city flotations in the 1990s as the benefits of the initial Sky TV involvement and the development of the Premier League became apparent.

"That was somewhat slowed down because of the general trend which was to divert a lot of that increased revenue towards player salaries rather than increasing consistent profitability of football clubs.

BLATTER: FOOTBALL IS 'ILL'

2007-03-24T11:20:00.000-07:00

FIFA president Sepp Blatter has warned that "football is ill" - and claimed brawling Arsenal and Chelsea players tarnished the image of the game.

Blatter said the mass brawl in the Carling Cup final, and the even worse violence between Valencia and Inter Milan players in the Champions League, brought shame on football.

He said he would raise the issue at the next FIFA Congress in May.

Blatter told a news conference at FIFA's Zurich headquarters: "We have come to a crossroads of football, our football is ill.

"I see more and more financial interests over-riding people in club football especially.

"Even rich countries they are not capable of providing safe and comfortable stadia and I see that violence is everywhere, including inside the stadia.

"When you see what happened recently in big stadia, in the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, when highly-paid players got involved in fights, which was nothing compared to what we saw later in Valencia.

"There are many other examples I could mention. Where is football leading to if players are now at each others' throats.

"What will people think if they see on TV these pictures of major football matches.

"We must act, and we will raise this at FIFA's next congress."

Blatter also moved to quell doubts on preparations for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, saying FIFA's executive committee were now satisfied with progress.

He said: "The executive committee is now convinced South Africa will be a good host for the 2010 World Cup.

"At our last meeting in December there were queries, hesitations, even doubts expressed by some members of the executive committee.

"Today, they all stood united behind South Africa and we are happy overall. They will also have the privilege of hosting the Confederations Cup in 2009 as a test event."

LEHMANN LAID BACK OVER CONTRACT

2007-03-22T11:11:00.001-07:00

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann insists there is "no fixed date" for his future to be sorted out.

The 37-year-old Germany international, currently with his national team preparing for Saturday's Euro 2008 qualifier in the Czech Republic, is out of contract at the end of the season.

It is believed he has been offered terms for a move back to the Bundesliga.

But Lehmann said: "I am in a situation at the moment where I have to make a decision at some point, but there is no fixed date for that to be made.

"Every week, a new club is linked with me, while everybody knows I am also happy at Arsenal. I'd rather not talk about it all."

CESC STILL MISSING SOMETHING

2007-03-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

Cesc Fabregas firmly believes Arsenal can still finish as runners-up in the Barclays Premiership - but admits "there is something missing" from the Gunners at the moment.

In the space of a few weeks, manager Arsene Wenger has seen a season which promised much end without silverware for the second year in succession following defeat in the Carling Cup final and exits from both the FA Cup and Europe.

Even though Arsenal lost at Everton before the international break, they remain in third place in the Premiership, one point ahead of Liverpool and with a game still in hand.

While Fabregas maintains a superb run of form over the remaining eight matches could yet see them overall Chelsea, the Spain international midfielder accepts there is very much a feeling of what might have been within the squad.

"It is strange, not the atmosphere at the training ground - but inside yourself," Fabregas told official website arsenal.com.

"Everyone feels there is something missing.

"When you are out of three cups and you just have the league to fight for, but you are so far behind the leaders, you think it is not the best of seasons.

"When there is still two months to go sometimes you can feel like the season is finished, but it is not.

"We have several games to go and if we win most of them we could finish second. In football you never know."

Despite the obvious disappointment of another barren campaign, Wenger maintains he has full confidence his squad can deliver sooner rather than later.

With so many talented young players pressing for a run in the fist team, Fabregas - himself only 19 - is certain the future is bright at Emirates Stadium.

He said: "No team in the world has young players with this quality and we have improved this year.

"Next season I feel we will definitely be genuine title contenders.

"We have a great squad, we all know each other really well, we have a lot of quality, we have the desire, we are all winners."

Wenger has seen his options limited by injuries this season, particularly in attack.

SILVA: REDS MEETING WILL DECIDE THIRD

2007-03-19T11:40:00.001-07:00

Brazilian star Gilberto Silva accepts that the next time he is back in Liverpool, the outcome will decide who finishes third in the Barclays Premiership.

The 30-year-old captained Arsenal in their last-ditch defeat in the snow at Everton on Sunday and admits the Gunners will be fighting to hold on to third place when they return to Merseyside at Anfield in a fortnight.

The clash with Liverpool, a lunchtime showdown on March 31, will be the next match for both the Gunners and Rafael Benitez's side.

And Gilberto insists Arsenal will have to do a lot better than they did at Goodison Park, where Andrew Johnson's late strike just compounded the misery of the North Londoners, who lost in three cup competition in recent weeks.

Arsenal's season has been in tatters ever since, and pride and third place is all they have to play for now.

Gilberto said: "We let our concentration slip in those last minutes against Everton, but the game has gone now.

"What we must do now is concentrate on our next game which will be at Liverpool. We need to have that in our mind and we know we need to do much better there than we did at Everton.

"We need to come back stronger from the international break. I will be with Brazil playing in Sweden, but that will have to be put to the back of our minds on our return.

"Sometimes when you have a bad result it helps to play again straight away, other times you need a break.

"But I hope this time the break will help us because these last few days and weeks have been very hard and very painful for us."

He added: "I have had to play central defence recently, that has been hard for me because it has been a long time since I played there. But I have to do it because of injuries and suspensions.

"I would expect that for the next game at Liverpool I will be back into my midfield role. I would rather be playing there because it is my natural position.

"I have spoken with Arsene (Wenger) about it and I accepted that I had to help the team by playing in defence.

"Every game is important and everybody has to co-operate with the manager. It has not only happened to me, with so many strikers injured or suspended there have been other players asked to play in different positions and everybody is trying to do their best for the team.

"It is the same for me. When Arsene said could I play at the back, of course I have done it for the team. I have tried to do my best.

LEHMANN DENIES BERLIN RUMOURS

2007-03-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to Hertha Berlin.

Last weekend, the Bild newspaper claimed he was on his way to the German capital on a two-year deal financed by an external source.

However, Lehmann has denied the report, though, telling kicker magazine on Monday: "I have not spoken to anybody in Berlin, I can promise you that."

Hertha have lost six out of their last seven games and refused to deny the rumours immediately and that has unsettled the club's current number one, Christian Fiedler.

He feels his employers have missed the perfect opportunity to show their full support for him and believes they are looking for a replacement.

"If they want to push me out, then they should not beat around the bush," he said.

BAPTISTA FOCUSED ON TASK - WENGER

2007-03-17T12:09:00.002-07:00

Arsene Wenger is in no doubt Julio Baptista will continue to give his all for Arsenal over the remainder of the season - even if his own future is in doubt.

The Brazilian, 25, is currently on loan from Real Madrid and is expected to feature for the Gunners at Everton on Sunday.

Wenger admits there are several factors to consider before a decision is taken on whether the move will be made permanent, most notably what happens with Jose Antonio Reyes, who is currently at the Bernabeu as part of the deal.

However, the commitment of Baptista is never in question according to the Arsenal manager.

"Julio is in the right frame of mind and he will work hard for the team, even if it damages his efficiency," said Wenger.

"He has a good spirit and, after Eindhoven, we are more concerned to get good results back than about individual performance.

"The future for Baptista depends on Real Madrid as well. It is linked [with Reyes]. He is injured at the moment with a knee problem. The season in Spain finishes later than us, so I do not know what they will decide.

"Jose wants to stay in Spain and Julio enjoys it very much with us.

"The passion, the spirit and the fact he plays in the team - he is very positive about his experience here."

Decisions must also be made on which players currently out on loan will be brought back to the Emirates Stadium - striker Nicklas Bendtner is doing well at promotion-chasing Birmingham - and also over veteran goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, out of contract but said to have been offered terms for a move back to Germany.

Speculation over who may stay or leave is something Wenger faces on a daily basis.

Wenger said: "In the Italian newspapers they talk about Gilberto, the German newspapers talk about Lehmann, the Spanish newspapers talk about Baptista and the Swedish papers talk about Ljungberg.

"I simply can not control all that."

However, Wenger insists any reports about midfielder Gilberto, 30, moving to Juventus are wide of the mark.

"He is under contract, we have had no offer so the subject is closed," he added.

"Let him go to the end of his contract and then we will see - but we might well extend because he is an important player for us."

The Gunners have seen a promising campaign shattered in recent weeks with all hopes of silverware ended by defeat in the Carling Cup final and exits from both the FA Cup and Champions League.

WENGER HAILS JOHNSON

2007-03-17T12:09:00.001-07:00

Arsene Wenger firmly believes Andrew Johnson is more than capable of helping lead the England attack - and revealed he had once been tempted to sign the Everton forward.

Johnson has performed consistently following his ฃ8.6million summer move from Crystal Palace, scoring 11 goals for the Toffees.

And the 26-year-old is expected to partner Wayne Rooney up front for England in the forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers with Israel and Andorra.

Arsenal travel to Goodison Park on Sunday and Wenger is not surprised to see the former Birmingham man competing at the top level.

"Andy Johnson is a player who can help England," said the Gunners boss. "He is a good player, with the timing of his runs, the quality of his runs, his team ethic is fantastic and he never gives up.

"He can be one of the players who can compliment Rooney because Rooney is more of a second striker who can make the runs and you need another striker who can stretch the defence.

"If you look at England players who can stretch the defence, Andy Johnson is one of them as well as Michael Owen."

Wenger had kept a keen eye on the development of Johnson since his impressive spell in the Barclays Premiership with Crystal Palace during the 2004-2005 campaign, when the striker scored 21 league goals but could not keep the Eagles up.

He revealed he had considered making a move for Johnson when the future of captain Thierry Henry looked uncertain, but was put off by the price tag.

"I did consider him at one stage when he was at Crystal Palace, but the price stopped it happening," revealed the Arsenal boss.

WENGER WON'T ABANDON PRINCIPLES

2007-03-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

Arsene Wenger admits he would have a dilemma over just where a big-name signing would fit into his current Arsenal side.

The past few weeks have been poor for the Gunners, whose hopes of silverware were ended with defeat in the Carling Cup final swiftly followed by exits from the FA Cup and Champions League.

While the battle to secure third place in the Barclays Premiership remains a realistic goal, there can be no doubt about the disappointment another barren season brings.

Wenger has, though, maintained he will only add only "super, super class" to his playing staff this summer should anyone be on the market and willing to come to the Emirates Stadium at the right price.

The futures of both Julio Baptista and Jose Antonio Reyes, on loan at Real Madrid, have to be sorted out one way or another - along with that of veteran goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, who is out of contract.

Several players such as striker Nicklas Bendtner, midfielder Alexander Song, Fabrice Muamba and full-back Kerrea Gilbert are all gaining first-team experience elsewhere, but are likely to return next season.

All this leaves Wenger with something of a conundrum should he decide to make a bold move in the transfer market this summer.

"Where would I put him? You are right," said the Arsenal manager.

"It would be detrimental to the development of some of the younger players who have come into the side and done well.

"We never had everybody fit and available at the same time this season - [William] Gallas, [Thierry] Henry and [Robin] van Persie.

"But the advantage we got from this year is that some young players had to play and they developed well."

Bendtner, 18, has proved a big hit for Birmingham, where he has chalked up 11 goals for the Coca-Cola Championship leaders.

Wenger expects the young Danish striker to feature regularly in his squad when the new campaign begins in August.

"He will come back and challenge for a first team place next season, I have spoken to him about that," said the Arsenal boss.

DOMENECH HITS BACK OVER HENRY

2007-03-15T12:51:00.001-07:00

France coach Raymond Domenech has hit back at Arsene Wenger following the Arsenal manager's claims that Les Bleus are to blame for Thierry Henry's injury-ravaged campaign.

Gunners captain Henry was last week ruled out for the rest of the season with stomach and groin problems.

That prompted Wenger to suggest the striker had been badly managed by France since the World Cup, insisting there was no need for the player to feature in so many friendly matches for his country.

But Domenech has reacted by saying his football federation have looked after Henry in the correct way.

"Mr Wenger is starting to seriously tire me out, and he is starting to tire out a lot of people," said the France coach, following the announcement of his squad to play Lithuania and Austria in a double-header later this month.

"He doesn't have innate knowledge. There comes a moment when enough is enough.

"When he says that a player who played in August injures himself (as a result) in March, I do not understand how he can explain that.

"He is forgetting to say that each time Thierry Henry played a match for France, three days later he played for Arsenal.