Eduardo back earlier than expected

Eduardo has revealed he could be back playing again as early as the start of next season.

The 25-year-old suffered a compound fracture of his left leg so horrific at Birmingham in February that some television producers refused to show replays of the incident, a tackle by Blues defender Martin Taylor.

There were initially fears that the injury would be disastrous for Eduardo’s career, but the Brazilian-born Croatia international’s recovery has been excellent.

Eduardo has spent the past six weeks rehabilitating in a clinic in Rio de Janeiro and told Croatian newspaper Sportske Novosti that doctors have given him the okay to return to training at the end of July.

"I am returning to Europe from Brazil at the beginning of August, perhaps even the end of July," said Eduardo. "Doctors tell me by then I will be fully recovered and able to play football again. I hope so too.

"I'm feeling well and my rehabilitation is going better than I would ever have hoped."

Eduardo’s return would be remarkable – only in March, the striker feared he may not return for another 15 months.

Van Persie: I'm Commited To Arsenal

The 24-year-old had a season to forget at the Emirates, suffering numerous injury setbacks as he and his team-mates finished the campaign trophyless.

Some have suggested that the former Feyenoord man has had enough of the Premier League and its all-action style, and will seek to leave North London in search of a less injury-riddled existence on the continent.

But the 24-year-old rubbished such claims, insisting he is in the process of extending his current deal with the Gunners, who he believes can achieve great success in the very near future.

“I’ve never thought about leaving for a less physical league like Spain,” said the Dutch international, who will travel to Switzerland for next month’s European Championship.

“I’m a committed Arsenal lad and discussing a new contract. It’s not the money which is important, it’s keeping this team together.
“Collectively we can become something very special.”

Emmanuel Adebayor has once again reiterated he is happy at the club

Following Mathieu Flamini's highly criticised move to Milan on a free transfer at the end of this season, and with Alexander Hleb seemingly soon to follow, many have begun talk that this is the beginning of the end for Arsene Wenger's young Gunners, who started the season so well, only to crash out of all four competitions in humiliating fashion.

However, the Arsenal squad have heard all the criticism in the world. They were in fact tipped to drop out of the top four this season without Thierry Henry, but instead recorded one of their best ever points tallies in the Premier League.

Despite rumoured interest from Barcelona and even Milan, Adebayor has once again stated his loyalties lie with Arsenal.

“I came to Arsenal with a mission to succeed," said the Togo international.

"I’ve assured the gaffer Arsene Wenger I’ll stay because I believe in the team and I want to assure the fans my concentration is here.

“I have no reason to leave so I’ll stay to ensure that together we’ll win silverware.

“Mathieu’s a good player but his departure doesn’t mean Arsenal is about to collapse. Our team is a deep well of talent.

“I am confident we are capable of winning titles and we will return for next season hungrier to be successful.”

Fabregas - I will stay

Cesc Fabregas has pledged his future to Arsenal because he would 'love' to win the Premier League.

The Spanish midfielder starred for Arsenal last season as Arsene Wenger's young side narrowly missed out on domestic and European glory.

And that form is believed to have made Fabregas a top summer target of the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Milan.

However, the 21-year-old is adamant that he will not be following Milan-bound Mathieu Flamini or Alexander Hleb, who looks set to move to Internazionale, out of Emirates Stadium.

"I will stay at Arsenal," Fabregas said in The Sun. "My coach asked me and I told him he had my confidence.

"I'd love to win the Premier League and I am one of those players who fight for what they want until they achieve it."

Van Persie in wages outburst

Robin van Persie has issued a stark warning to Arsenal and manager Arsene Wenger, claiming the London club must increase their wage budget if they are to keep their squad together.

Reports also claim that Emmanuel Adebayor is demanding a wage increase but Wenger is protective of the salary structure at Emirates Stadium and has always underlined he will not compromise the club’s financial stability in order to keep a player happy.

This ethos of frugality is clearly not one that Van Persie subscribes to, as the Holland star has urged Arsenal to loosen the purse-strings if they are to avoid losing more of their star names in future.

"They should make sure that these players stay,” said Van Persie, who is reportedly discussing a new deal in North London. “Arsenal have a policy in which they will not go over a specific amount of money when agreeing the salary of a player.

"They won't pay enormous amounts of money. I think that they should go to a higher level of salary.

"If you want to keep the group together, you have to keep them happy. If you are 27 or 28, I can understand that you would make the decision to go elsewhere if you can earn three or four times as much.

"If that sort of money was also paid here, I'm sure that person would stay.

"It is the principle. It is very important that Arsenal keep these guys. This group is unique. If a number of them leave, it will be different.

"I think of myself as an Arsenal man but Arsenal should also try to make sure that we all grow together."

Hleb angered by recent reports

Despite reports continuing to link Alexander Hleb with an imminent exit from Arsenal, the Belarus international has revealed his admiration for Arsene Wenger and claimed he has never publicly stated his desire to leave the club.

However, if he does move on in the summer, then the playmaker has stated it will be in Italy or Spain and not with another English club.

Whilst not completely denying that a move could be on the cards, the 27-year-old has angrily rejected suggestions that he has publicly articulated his desire to leave the North London club and claims he would never show such disrespect to Wenger.

“I also see everything on television and the newspapers," Hleb told Spox.com before Belarus' friendly with Germany on Tuesday night. "I have a contract at Arsenal until 2010 and now only think of the game against Germany.

“I have also read [that I have said I want to leave], but I do not know who has written it. That is nonsense.

“I have also read that I wanted to move because Arsenal would win nothing, this too is nonsense.

“But I would really not like to comment on the issue really because there is nothing more to say, because the club means so much to me.

“I have learned so much from Arsene Wenger. This man has always supported me and given me the chance to come to Arsenal. I would therefore never say anything negative about Arsenal.

“If I’ll go, then only in a different league, in any case, in England, there is only Arsenal for me.”

When asked specifically about the claims from Shpilevski in The Sun, an evasive Hleb replied: “What should I say? I do not want to comment on news from a newspaper, especially since the alleged quote did not come from me.”

Hleb has enjoyed a superb season for Arsenal but ultimately The Gunners ended up empty-handed when missing out on The Premier League and Champions League in galling circumstances.

At 27, Hleb admits he is concerned at finishing his career with a bare trophy cabinet having had three barren seasons in North London.

“Titles are the most important thing,” Hleb added. “You can play very well, perhaps one of the best ever, but after the career you ask what you have won.

“To win a title is also the most important thing for me. The clock is ticking but it is simply not happening. It is very difficult.

“In this year I thought that I would win two titles, but as I said everything went wrong.

“I do not know what happened. Suddenly everything was gone. It is a pity because this season it was going very well.

“I think I played quite well, even though it could have been better. I am satisfied. Only with the end that we have no title, I am obviously not satisfied.”

Hleb joined Arsenal in 2005 and after initially struggling to adapt to life in The Premier League he really came into his own after scoring on the opening day of the season against Fulham.

The playmaker has praised Wenger for the decisive role he has had in his career and has stated that the Frenchman ’is’ Arsenal Football Club.

“Arsene is the best manager I’ve ever had. What makes him so special? I cannot exactly explain. For me it is this: He picks a player from no-one knows where and a year later, that player is a great star, and he does it every year.

“That is why Arsenal is Arsene, for me.”

Simpson - I want to be part of Arsenal's future

Jay Simpson has returned to Arsenal after a season long loan spell with Millwall.

The young striker is keen to apply all that he has learnt in a red and white shirt, and the sooner the better.

“I am very high in confidence at the moment and feel that I have learnt a lot, especially playing under pressure,” he says. “When I first joined Millwall we were playing some good football but did not get the results that the quality of the play deserved.

"I started in the team and then after a little while I wasn’t starting, but then Kenny Jackett was appointed as manager last November and I started playing regularly again,” recalls Jay. “Because we had a poor start to the season, it felt as though we were in a relegation battle from the beginning. All the players were under pressure.

"There were a lot of team-talks whereby players who had previously been in Division Two were relaying their experiences and emphasising that they did not want to play there again. That worked to keep everybody focused on fighting for every point. The fans at Millwall are very passionate too and they were another reason for the players to keep doing everything possible to stay up.

"The fans were good to me. I used to get good feedback from them when I used to talk to them before games and I think much of that was because I scored a lot of important goals.”

One of those goals came in the final rubber of the season when the youngster bagged the first of Millwall’s three that guaranteed the South London Club safety.

“That was a big relief for everyone and a great reward for all the hard work put in over the season. Millwall have something to build on now.”

Jay played over 40 games for the Lions and scored eight goals, all from wide positions.

“I never got to play up top. The manager played me wide right as one of a three and wanted me to run at players and get crosses into the box. It’s a role that I have played for Arsenal in both the youth team and reserves and so it wasn’t new to me but I was able to develop my dribbling and quality of my deliveries and of course, getting into goalscoring positions. Whether I play as an out and out attacker up top or in wide positions I feel I am much better equipped now to take on defenders and make best use of my ability to do so.”

The youngster clearly enjoyed his time with Millwall, but it took him a bit of time to settle.

“When I first joined I used to go in the mornings for training, do my work and go home. I felt like a bit of an outsider in the beginning. I never really spoke or mixed in with the team. Then a couple of the more senior players came over and had a chat and really helped me become part of the set up. After that I started bonding with players and especially after the new manager came in, he brought in some younger players and I made some good friends that I am now very close with.”

Jay is an Arsenal fan from Tottenham and kept a close eye on results while he was at The New Den.

“I really thought it was going to be our year this year. We have played some great football and I am gutted that we look like we are going to finish third, especially how results have gone recently. We have not had the luck with us this year, but the younger players have come on so well and will have learnt a lot which will be good for next season.

“I want to be a part of Arsenal’s future and you never know, I could get a chance of featuring in the last game of the season. That would be good. I got a lot out of my time with Millwall and I think I did well for them too, but it reaffirmed for me that I want to play my football at the highest level and I will do everything I can to make sure that I can do that with the Club I have loved since I was a child.”

Fabregas ready to talk tough with Arsenal

TheArsenal board are steeling themselves for tough contract negotiations with Cesc Fabregas after it emerged the Spanish midfielder's new agent is Darren Dein, son of the club's estranged former vice-chairman, David Dein.

Fabregas is already committed to Arsenal until 2014, but the club recognise the need to tie him to an improved deal in keeping with his status as one of the finest young players in the world - and to ward off Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Tentative talks began earlier this year and the Arsenal board were then furious when they found out that Fabregas sacked his Spanish agent, Joseba Diaz seven weeks ago and replaced him with Darren Dein.

Their misgivings are two-fold. The board's acrimonious relationship with Darren's father is well known after he was forced out of the club last year and then teamed up with Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov, who has acquired a 24.2 per cent stake in the club.

It is understood the board feel the fall-out from that split could now impact on the negotiations with Fabregas. He also represents his friend Thierry Henry - Dein was best man at Henry's wedding - and struck a hard bargain when the former Arsenal striker was weighing up whether to move to Barcelona two years ago. The switch was finally completed 14 months later.

Analysis of Arsenal's accounts has shown that, incredibly, Henry was paid the equivalent of £200,000 a week during his final season in north London, when Dein senior was in charge of contract negotiations.

Henry received a £5 million signing-on fee when he put pen to paper on the four-year deal, which was topped up by a £5 million salary.

The deal was approved at board level but there was anger among some of the directors that the signing-on fee had not been spread out over the entirety of the contract.

There are fears that Arsenal may need to offer Fabregas a similarly lucrative package to keep him.

He was voted the PFA Young Player of the Year this season and has inherited Henry's status as the club's talisman.

Fabregas has been given his own television show, which has been commissioned and created by his sponsors, Nike, and was broadcast on Sky Sports last week.

The midfielder's existing agreement, which has annual increments built in, is believed to be worth around £60,000 per week, which leaves him short of the club's top earners, William Gallas and Arsene Wenger, the manager, who earn salaries of £4 million.

Fabregas and his advisers are seeking a new deal that will replace the terms of his existing agreement.

Although Arsenal have a strict wage structure and were unwilling to make Mathieu Flamini the club's top earner, they are prepared to give more ground to Fabregas, who was plucked from the Barcelona academy and has made huge strides since making his debut for the club as a 16-year-old.

Talks will centre on the terms rather than the length of the deal but it is likely that Fabregas will be seeking around £100,000 a week to reflect his 'Galactico' status.

Wenger has a big say in contract talks and he insisted earlier this month that the Spaniard would mature into the finest midfielder in the world.

Hleb: It's hard in England

Despite describing The Premier League as ‘the best league in the world’, Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb has bemoaned the physical demands of competing at the elite level with The Gunners.

Hleb joined Arsenal in the summer of 2005 from German side Stuttgart and his first two seasons were a struggle at times, but in the past 12 months he has looked comfortable in the Arsenal side and was a key member of Arsene Wenger’s team this season.

It may be construed as unfortunate, then, that he is now being strongly linked with a move away from the club with his agent claiming Wenger has allowed him to leave, as both Inter and Real Madrid wait in the wings.

In an interview conducted in Germany, Hleb did not elaborate on his future in North London but did emphasise just how much of a challenge The Premier League has been for the past three seasons.

“I have learned in England that there is still so much to improve,” said Hleb in Frankfurter Allgemeine.

“I have always dreamed of playing in a great club. Now I have learned that it is not so easy and a lot of work.

“The first year was a killer. I felt very lonely.

“It was clear that The Premier League would be a challenge – but with this pace, I have not expected this.

“The Bundesliga is still a good league, but a season in England feels like two in Germany.

“I will tell you an example: When I was here at the beginning, everything went chop chop, so fast. The pace was madness, even in training.

“I look for the ball in front of me, then where I can play it – when I looked down again the ball was gone.

“The English league is the best league in the world.”

Djourou wants Arsenal midfield role

Johan Djourou claims he is an option for a holding role in Arsenal's midfield next season.

The Switzerland international is looking forward to representing his country in Euro 2008 but has his sights fixed on a place in Arsene Wenger's starting line-up next term.

After injury hampered his progress on returning from a loan spell at Birmingham City, Djourou believes he can provide a couple of options for Wenger due to his versatility.

"Playing in front of the defence is the position where my qualities are expressed best," said Djourou, who is usually seen as an out-and-out defender.

"Arsene Wenger says this to me too. Unfortunately, we do not play a system which enables me to hold this spot, like Claude Makelele does with Chelsea.

"I have not had many possibilities of showing my midfield capabilities. I hope my chance will come in the next few years. My great concern today is not to know if I play in defence or midfield, in the team or on the bench.

"I am only 21 years old," he told Tribune de Geneve. "I have learned much already and always learn.

"The situation will be different when I am 26 or 27 years old. At this age, one wants to be fixed on the pitch and be able to exploit his potential to the full.

"Wenger had assured me that I returned [from Birmingham] to play but an injury kept me out for three months - it is football."

Djourou has no intention of leaving Emirates this summer despite the fact that Mathieu Flamini has departed and Alexander Hleb looks to be on his way out.

"My future is with Arsenal as my contract binds me with them until 2013," he stated.

Randall - I know what I need to succeed

Mark Randall knows exactly what is needed to succeed at Arsenal.

The talented midfielder recently returned from a five-month loan spell with Championship outfit Burnley. As well as picking up a wealth of first-team experience, Randall learned more of the values required to be a professional.

“I would say I have come back physically stronger and more hard-working,” the 18-year-old told Arsenal.com. “That is what I learnt a lot of at Burnley, so I would definitely say my loan helped towards me featuring at Sunderland.

“I know you need a lot of discipline to succeed as an Arsenal player, and a professional attitude. I have that now and I am so happy for the sacrifices I have made.

And the good times have surely only just begun. Randall is a hugely-gifted individual and, despite his tender age, he already possesses plenty of guile and footballing know-how. No wonder manager Arsène Wenger sees him as a long-term prospect at the Club.

Having enjoyed a fruitful pre-season with the first team at their Austrian training camp - and an appearance at the Emirates Cup - Randall was handed his senior debut in the Carling Cup win at Blackburn. Inevitably, when the transfer window opened in January, other clubs came knocking. So when Arsenal Under-18s tumbled out of the FA Youth Cup, Randall headed north to Turf Moor.

“I think it was good for me at that time to go,” he explained. “I didn’t want to still be playing occasionally in the Reserves. After we got knocked out of the FA Youth Cup, I wouldn’t say we didn’t have anything to play for, but we weren’t challenging for honours so it was good for me to add an extra edge to my game elsewhere.

“Nothing about going out [on loan] again has been discussed although I’d be happy to if that is what was wanted.

“But you can’t get any better club than Arsenal as a youngster to be brought up at. This is the best place for me, at my age. The facilities, the coaching, everything makes it what it is.

“So I would rather keep working my way into the first team here but I understand that part of my development is going out on loan.”

Arsenal won't welcome big spenders

Arsenal director Danny Fiszman has pledged that the North London club will never go down the route pursued by rivals Chelsea and rely on a wealthy benefactor, with natural and sustainable growth the preferred option at Emirates Stadium.

Wenger has memorably described Chelsea’s policy of plunging the club into debt and relying on the personal funds of Roman Abramovich as ‘financial doping’, and Fiszman appears ready to resist any attempts from Usmanov to tread a similar path.

"We don't believe in the benefactor model," Fiszman told Arsenal TV.

"It is not a question of a one-time infusion of cash to buy player x or player y. You actually then have salaries that are connected to the players.

"What if they don't work out? Do you go and buy another two or three players? Is there any end to it?

"So I think everybody, including Chelsea, knows there are limits. Chelsea were not big spenders last summer certainly - they got our old player Steven Sidwell on a free transfer.

"We believe in the end the self-sustaining model is the right one, the one we have adopted and will continue adopting."

On the departure of Flamini to Milan on a free transfer, Fiszman insisted that Arsenal’s wage structure is competitive in The Premier League and that they were unwilling to break that in order to keep the France international at the club.

"We made a substantial offer to Mathieu,” Fiszman added. “It was considerable and in line with our wage structure but he chose to go elsewhere.

"We wish him luck, thank him for what he has done for the club and wish him all the best.

"If you look at our total wage costs you will see they are virtually the same as Manchester United and substantially more than Liverpool.

"Of course we are all a little less than Chelsea who are in a world of their own. But compared to Manchester United and Liverpool we are good payers.

"We believe it is a team sport and we do well but we don't want the disparity between the top and bottom earner being too big. It takes 11 people on the pitch to deliver."

Arsenal season still a success says director Fiszman

Arsenal director Danny Fiszman says the club's trophy-less season and third-placed league finish can be viewed as a success.

Fiszman, the club's second largest shareholder, said: "It has to be seen as a successful season even though we didn't win any trophies. If you had asked fans at the start if they would be happy to finish in the top four and within 15 points of Manchester United, they would have taken it.

"We can't win every year and hopefully it will be our turn next year."

Arsene Wenger says the signing of Marseille's highly-rated playmaker Samir Nasri is likely to be completed soon. He said: "It is likely to happen. And if so it will be before the European Championship."

Barazite - I am getting better and better

Nacer Barazite is a better player now his injury nightmare is behind him.

The young Dutchman suffered the agony of a dislocated left shoulder just 25 minutes into his competitive first-team debut back in November - a Carling Cup fixture against Blackburn Rovers. That night at Ewood Park should have been memorable for all the right reasons, but it ended with Barazite leaving the field on a stretcher.

The gifted forward was one of the star performers in the successful Under-18 and Reserve team campaigns as he built on the foundations of an appearance, and a goal, in the customary curtain-raiser to the pre-season at Barnet last July.

A place on the substitutes bench for the Premier League match at Sunderland this month completed Barazite's recovery and brought to a close a fine second season in North London. While he didn't get on, there was no containing his excitement at the whole experience.

"I had been training with the first team the days before the game," a delighted Barazite told Arsenal.com. "I knew that injuries and international commitments meant some places were available so I was hoping I would be involved. Thankfully I [was] and it was a fantastic experience.

"Looking back the Blackburn game was of course frustrating because I felt then that I was close to the first team, I was playing well and suddenly you get the injury set-back. But I think the whole injury situation can help me be a better player. I had never expected to be injured like that.

"It isn't a good experience, it is bad of course, but you can take positive things out of it and can learn from it. I did that and came back very strong.

"At the time after the injury I was just focused on recovery. I forgot about my long-term aims and just wanted to get better and then when I was I got my mind back on the targets, which were to gain first team experience by the end of the season.

"I came to Arsenal with my target of reaching the first team as quick as possible. But I didn't expect to be 17 and making my debut! That was a shock but I was playing well at the time so perhaps not so much of a shock. I am really happy with the last two years and hopefully it can keep going next year."

But what of next year? There are many options for a talent like Barazite. He is still only 18 and, by his own admission, has aspects of his game that still need developing. Would a loan spell provide the relevant platform?

"A loan experience is always good for every young player but my aim is to play in the first team for Arsenal. And in pre-season I will do my very best and prove what I can do to the boss and give him the choice to make me stay.

"A loan would be good and I wouldn't say no to it but at the moment I am focused on the Arsenal first team and hopefully I can stay and achieve that.

"But I know what I need to get that. The Premier League is probably the best league in Europe and even the world and what you need is good technique, but that playing style is well suited to me. I love to play the ball around and here we keep the ball on the floor. I love it [the technical aspect of the game] and that is what the Club works on.

"My defensive side of the game does need work too. That is always talked about with the coaches, Neil Banfield and Steve Bould, and I can see in the two years I have been here that I have improved a lot.

"If I can keep going that way then it isn't too far for me before I reach the first team."

Walcott believes senior experience will help Under 21s

Theo Walcott hopes his experience with England's senior squad will benefit the Under 21s as they aim for the European Championship finals.

The Arsenal forward has been named in Fabio Capello's squad to face the United States and Trinidad and Tobago in friendlies this week.

But the 19-year-old still has his sights set on helping the Under 21s to glory in the European Championship in Sweden starting with the play-offs in October.

Unsurprisingly Walcott is relishing the challenge of playing at both levels but he insists it hands an advantage to Stuart Pearce's Under 21 side.

"It's just good to play really," Walcott told The Times. "Maybe the experience we get with the seniors will help with the Under 21s, because there's quite a few of us from the Under 21s in the seniors.

"Also, it gives us the opportunity to try to win the tournament as well, if there are senior squad players still young enough to play for the Under 21s who Stuart Pearce can call upon.

"We've still got to qualify but it'd be good to get the experience of winning a tournament under our belts."

Walcott concedes he may not start in this week's friendlies but maintains that his top priority is improving at club level.

His Arsenal starts have also been sparse with 14 appearances from the bench this season, something that Walcott hopes to increase.

"It'd be a dream come true, to play for England at Wembley this week," Walcott added.

"I know I probably won't start but hopefully I will do well. If I work hard and play well for Arsenal, then hopefully I'll get my chance and why not?"

Wenger - Nasri signing likely

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that the signing of Marseille's highly-rated playmaker Samir Nasri is 'likely' to be completed.

The Gunners have been strongly linked with a swoop for France international Nasri, with reports claiming he will replace midfielder Alexander Hleb, who is expected to leave Emirates Stadium this summer.

And Wenger has confirmed that talks are underway as he looks to secure Nasri's signature before the Euro 2008 finals in Austria and Switzerland, which start on 7th June.

"It is likely to happen," he told Telefoot.

"And if it does happen, it will be before the start of the European Championship."

Nasri, who has often been likened to Zinedine Zidane, has been included in the provisional France squad for Euro 2008.

Jibril looking forward to Arsenal trial

Accra Hearts of Oak teenager Tawrik Jibril will spend two weeks on trial at Arsenal next month as he hopes to secure a permanent move to the club.

And he is looking forward to showing what he can do, saying

“I am ready to play under coach Wenger and I will be happy to show the world what I can do.

I like the style of play of Arsenal because of the silky skills and that is what I can add to the team.

if I am given the chance I know I can play in the first team - I am not afraid.

we play before big crowds and even though they call me a small boy I am not afraid of them.”

He certainly seems ambitious and is the type of player that would fit nicely into Arsenal’s style of play. His agent has also tipped him for big things, saying

”We have taken the future development of the player into consideration and we all know that there is coach better than Arsene Wenger who can do the work

We must not forget that for a multi-talented young African player he needs an African environment to probably flourish.

Arsenal offers that more than any other team with several African players at the club.

But Arsenal must be ready to pay the price demanded by his club and also assure us that he will develop well.

Torric is the next big thing to hit world football and you need to see his unbelievable qualities.

At this age to be playing in Ghana’s midfield full of talented players should tell you a lot.” Quotes from thesun.co.uk

The young Ghanian is estimated to be worth approximately £1.5million which may seem a lot of money to pay for a 16 year old, but given his enormous potential it could be worth it in the long run.

The likes of Atletico Madrid and Roma have both been after him in the past, but if he impresses during his spell at London Colney, then he could well be coming to Arsenal.

Gilberto urges Wenger to spend

Arsenal veteran Gilberto is worried the club’s youngsters will quickly become disillusioned at Emirates Stadium unless Arsene Wenger signs some top players.

The Gunners have seen Mathieu Flamini jump ship to Milan during the close season, while Alexander Hleb’s agent confirmed on Saturday that the tricky Belarussian will also leave.

Reports in France claim Marseille’s Samir Nasri will join Arsenal on Monday, but with Real Madrid always hovering over Cesc Fabregas, Gilberto insists now is the time to remind players they are at a big club.

“I think Arsene needs to bring in some players to compete with the other big teams,” the Brazil international was quoted as saying in The Daily Star.

“They have many more players than us. It has been hard for us to fight the other teams because they are a lot stronger and more competitive.

“You have to keep reminding young players not to think they’ve done enough in their life and their career.

“I think one of the biggest jobs is to keep everyone happy and motivated at Arsenal. Although we played some good football, we didn’t win anything.”

Meanwhile, the 31-year-old has reiterated his desire to stay at the club, although he admits Arsene Wenger is still to reveal his hand.

“I have no idea exactly what is going to happen, but I want to stay at Arsenal as I have one more year left,” Gilberto stated.

Agent claims Hleb can leave

Alexander Hleb’s agent claims Arsenal have agreed to let his client leave North London this summer.

Hleb has grown frustrated with life in the English capital and is looking to move on, despite having had a superb season for Arsenal.

The Belarus star is Arsenal’s creative spark in midfield and his departure would leave Arsene Wenger with a huge void to fill, but his agent claims The Gunners have agreed to let him head for pastures new.

“I can officially confirm that a short time ago Alexander decided that he will leave Arsenal and join another club,” Hleb’s representative Nikolai Shpilevski told The Sun.

"Of course, Arsenal and Arsene wanted him to stay but they have accepted the player's choice."

Hleb has just over two years to run on his commitment, but he will not rob Arsenal of a transfer fee by buying out his contract.

"We are not using article 17 of the Fifa rule,” added Shpilevski. "I can't tell you anything about where he will be playing yet.

"Talks are underway, and I don't have the right to make them public.

"I think that the issue of his new club will be clarified in the next few days."

Almunia - No excuses for failure

Manuel Almunia has warned his team-mates that 'there can be no excuses' if Arsenal fail to last the distance in the Premier League title race next term.

The Gunners, without silverware since 2005, ended the season in third despite leading for much of the campaign.

And goalkeeper Almunia admits next season could be the making or breaking of an Arsenal side that has steadily matured over recent years.

"The season may not have ended very well for us, but this was the year to push us for better things," Almunia told the club's official website.

"Next season there can be no excuses not to fight for the Premier League until the end of the season.

"We need to be at the top for the whole season, not only at the beginning or the middle - and that is in all competitions as well."

Arsenal sign Francis Coquelin

According to reports from the French press, Arsenal have signed Francis Coquelin on a free transfer.

The 17-year-old French midfielder did not feature in the European Under-17 Championships due to injury and domestic media claim that he underwent a medical in London on Tuesday prior to the signing of a long-term contract with The Gunners.

Coquelin previously experienced a trial at Arsenal’s London Colney training grounds and it appears the former Laval player impressed fellow countryman Arsene Wenger.

A statement from his former club Laval – Ligue 2 – states that: “We are hearing here and there different destinations for different transfer fees.

“The truth of the moment it that Francis Coquelin is free.

“Nothing more links him with MFC, as a consequence his future club have no obligation to pay an education fee.”

The French media also claimed on Wednesday that two Ligue players, Samir Nasri from Marseille and Clement Chantome from Paris Saint Germain, are on Arsenal’s wish list.

Agent: Nasri not a done deal

Samir Nasri’s agent has warned Arsenal that he and his client are in no rush to decide the midfielder’s future, and Jean-Pierre Bernes also claims he has received rival offers for the France international.

Both English and French media alike have been awash with speculation that Nasri is poised to move to North London after the playmaker admitted that Marseille’s game with Strasbourg on Saturday could be his last for the Ligue 1 club.

Respected daily L’Equipe further claimed on Wednesday that a deal had been reached between the two clubs and it appeared to be only a matter of hours before the 20-year-old was unveiled as Arsenal’s first signing of the transfer window.

Bernes has sought to put a dampener on such reports though, claiming that Arsenal have competition to sign a player who has been described as ‘the new Zinedine Zidane’ thanks to his Algerian roots and the fact he is a playmaker born in the streets of Marseille.

"We are not in a hurry. It is true that we are examining an offer from Arsenal, which is interesting for Samir Nasri from a sporting point of view," Jean-Pierre Bernes told La Provence.

"But I have also received other offers.”

Carlos Vela has been awarded a work permit to play for Arsenal

Carlos Vela has been awarded a work permit to play for Arsenal and will join The Gunners for pre-season training in July, according to his agent.

Expectation is building amongst Arsenal fans as the 2005 Fifa Under-17 Championship top scorer prepares to arrive in North London and now his agent, Eduardo Hernandez, has confirmed that the forward has the necessary documentation to begin work in England, even if a Spanish passport is still in the pipeline.

“Besides the critics that he have had for making Carlos play at Celta Vigo, Salamanca and Osasuna it has been very important for preparing him to arrive in The Premier League,” said Hernandez.

“In Spain a moment of his career gets closed, now he is waiting for his [Spanish] passport.

“He has worked the time that The Premier League requires, everything is going on fine.

“He has his work permission so Carlos will be joining Arsenal in July to begin pre-season work.”

Flamini chose Milan because of the club's reputation

Mathieu Flamini concedes it was a tough decision to leave Arsenal but has explained he was unable to resist the lure of Milan's reputation.

Flamini snubbed The Gunners' attempts to extend his stay at Emirates Stadium, instead penning a four-year deal at the San Siro earlier this month.

The France international has claimed the move had nothing to do with a more lucrative contract from the Serie A side, who will play Uefa Cup football next season, explaining it was Milan's history that tempted him.

"I always said Milan would have been my first choice if I left Arsenal and I didn't do it for money," Flamini told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I don't say it to boast, but I had lots of offers and I chose Milan because it's every player's dream. It wasn't easy to decide to leave London but I knew what I wanted.

"I don't mind [that Milan will play in the Uefa Cup next term]. Those who play in the Uefa Cup with Milan know that it's the exception of one season. Milan are the team with most (international) titles in the world.

"They are a great club with a great history, a good, amiable coach, excellent players, passionate fans. When I entered the San Siro on the night of Milan-Arsenal it made me shiver."

French trio lined up by Wenger

Arsenal are closing in on a triple French swoop with Samir Nasri, Clement Chantome and Francis Coquelin all understood to be on the verge of moving to North London.

The biggest of the three deals is that of Nasri - who only recently signed a new long-term contract with Marseille.

But l'OM have agreed to let him leave as they hope to sign Hatem Ben Arfa from Lyon as a replacement.

Arsenal, who also have an interest in Ben Arfa, have agreed a deal for Nasri believed to be worth 15million euros (£11.9million).

Nasri is expected in the English capital on Wednesday for a medical before signing a four-year deal.

While Wenger is a fan of both Nasri and Ben Arfa - the l'OM man has always been his preference and it appears he is now close to capturing him.

Nasri's signing is likely to be followed by the arrivals of Clement Chantome and Francis Coquelin.

Chantome was one of the few Paris Saint Germain players to come out of last season with any plaudits after a string of impressive displays in central midfield.

The 22-year-old has been likened to Mathieu Flamini and Wenger is reported to have met with the French Under 21 international in the last week.

Coquelin - who is with third division Laval, has been on trial with Arsenal and although he picked up an injury during training - the 17-year-old seems to have done enough to earn a deal.

It is believed Coquelin is currently in London undergoing a medical ahead of a deal.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have also handed a trial to Ghanaian starlet Tawrick Jibril.

The 16-year-old is currently with Hearts of Oak and has been linked with Atletico Madrid.

Jibril will link-up with Arsenal in July and will hope to make an impression on Wenger.

I'll Be Fit For The Euro's - Van Persie

Injury-plagued Arsenal forward Robin van Persie is confident that he will be fit in time to represent his side at this summer's European Championship

Van Persie, 24, has been labeled as an incredible prospect for many years now, but has failed to fully deliver and fulfil his potential due to persistent injury problems.

It is believed the forward will make the final Dutch squad, despite many opposed to the notion, and even he himself has admitted he will not be in top form.

"After all the physical niggles I had this season it is not obvious that I am going to be at the top of my form," admitted van Persie, speaking from the club's training camp, where he is training away from the group with a physiotherapist. He is likely to miss this Saturday's warm-up match against Ukraine.

"I must take it gradually, but I am optimistic. I think that I will be ready for the beginning of the tournament.

"It is both tiring physically as well as psychologically because each time I thought I was getting back to being fully fit, I had a reverse.

"The coach [Marco van Basten] has confidence in me, which is very pleasing and reassuring.

Risk

Van Basten has insisted he will not be risking the long-term fitness of the player, and that the priority is to have him fighting for the Netherlands' first game of the tournament, against World Cup winners Italy on June 9.

"I do not want to take a risk with Robin," declared van Basten, who will step down after the tournament and take charge of Ajax.

"My wish is that he will be 100percent fit on June 9."

Along with Italy, the Dutch must also face World Cup finalists France in their group - dubbed the Group of Death - with Romania very much making up the numbers.

Gunners trial Ghanaian talent

According to reports in Ghana, Arsenal have handed a trial to Accra Hearts of Oak teenager Tawrick Jibril.

The 16-year-old midfielder has attracted a lot of foreign interest in recent weeks and has apparently caught the eye of Arsenal’s chief scout Steve Rowley.

Reports claim that Jibril will undergo a two-week trial at Emirates Stadium in June with a view to impressing Arsene Wenger.

Continuing their unstinting search for undiscovered talents across the globe, The Gunners are also being linked with French youngster Francis Coquelin.

Reports in France detail how the 17-year-old Stade Lavallois midfielder and France youth international recently spent a trial spell in North London that was cut short due to injury.

The Cesc Fabregas Show (Full Episode)

The video is complete show that was aired on Sky on Monday the 19th of May.

fr333dom /// mininova

Here the Megaupload link

Rapidshare links

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5


Sky Sports1: 18:30pm - 19:30pm

Language: English.

An unseen insight into the life of one of Europe's brightest football talents, and PFA Young Player of the Year, Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas.

Credit:albiondean

Its a torrent!

Here are a few of the short videos that were show before the show.


Behind the scenes footage of Cesc Fabregas Show



Cesc visits sports psychiatrist

Cesc fabregas staying cool

Cesc Fabregas show on nike show Trailer

Aquilani opens discussions with Arsenal, says agent

Arsenal are in talks with Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani, according to the player's agent.

The Gunners reportedly had an offer rejected for the 23-year-old Italy international last summer, however it is claimed they are set to renew their interest

Manager Arsene Wenger is rumoured to be keen to bolster his midfield options after losing the out-of-contract Mathieu Flamini to Milan.

Aquilani's agent, Vincenzo Morabito, told Italia Uno: "Aquilani is speaking to Arsenal. We will have to see if Roma will be able to match his demands."

Senderos - Wenger wants me

Philippe Senderos has insisted that he remains in Arsene Wenger's plans despite rumours linking him with a move away from Arsenal.

"I still have a contract with two years left on it and the boss wants me to stay. I'm also very happy in London so yes I still hope to be there next season," he said.

"Personally I thought I had a pretty good season and it was really positive that I was able to play so many games this year.

"Obviously we had a disappointing year overall because we were five points clear at one stage in the league and it was really hard to lose it all in a few games.

"Then we lost (in the Champions League quarter-finals) to Liverpool, which was very disappointing for the whole team, but we know we have the quality to come back strong next year."

Senderos went on to dismiss claims that he broke down after Arsenal's 4-2 second leg defeat at Anfield.

"I'm someone who is always hard on myself so I was disappointed like everyone else but I didn't break down in tears and I didn't miss training and I didn't do all these things that they said I did," he explained.

Wenger: People want to join us

Arsene Wenger has revealed players are queueing up to join Arsenal, but he will continue with his policy of signing ‘huge players, not huge names’.

Wenger is under pressure to respond in the transfer market this summer after losing Mathieu Flamini for free to Milan, while Alexander Hleb’s future remains under a heavy cloud of doubt.

The wily Frenchman has been linked with the likes of Marseille’s Samir Nasri and Lyon’s Hatem Ben Arfa in recent weeks, both young talents causing a storm of attention in Ligue 1.

However, both additions would not solve a widely-viewed lack of leadership in the Arsenal camp, but Wenger insists reputations mean nothing to him.

"I think a huge player is better than a huge name," Wenger told Arsenal’s official website.

“You have huge names who produce very little at the moment.”

Wenger has widened his net for summer spending, admitting he now needs two or three players rather than the one he initially stated.

And despite The Gunners’ much-maligned wage cap, the Arsenal boss insists there are queues of players wanting to move to Emirates Stadium.

"There is plenty of demand from players who want to join us and what we need next year is two or three maybe."

Cesc visits a sports psychiatrist

Arsenal FC: The Beautiful Game by mdatile 3

This is a 6 minute video displaying the beautiful passing football of Arsenal.






credit: mdatile 3

The reason why Flamini left Arsenal

MATHIEU FLAMINI would still be an Arsenal player if the club had offered him a new contract last summer.

Instead the Gunners told him to prove he was worth a better deal — and a few months later found themselves battling with Europe’s biggest clubs in a futile bid to keep him.

French midfielder Flamini today gives his first full interview since ditching the Londoners for Italian side AC Milan and tells SunSport he joined Milan because he reckons they are one of the two biggest clubs in the world, NOT because of the money.

Felt Gunners boss Arsene Wenger was wrong to accuse him of being greedy.

Flamini, 24, said: “If Arsenal had offered me a contract last summer I would still be their player now.

“Last July I told Arsenal I wanted to extend my contract so, of course, I would have signed if they had offered me a deal . . . but they didn’t.

“They said they wanted me to prove myself first.

“It was difficult for me at the beginning. I had to see it as a challenge but I won’t lie, it was not easy. You have to be mentally very strong to cope.”

To his credit, the French international knuckled down and played his heart out.

He added: “If I had a serious injury my future would have been in question as I was out of contract. But, touch wood, I don’t want to think about these things and, thankfully, I played well and I can be proud of what I achieved.”

By the time Arsenal made an offer they were competing with Milan, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Inter and Juventus who were all desperate to sign Flamini.

Yet the midfielder was so determined to stay at Arsenal — even after receiving huge offers from Europe’s big hitters — that he was prepared to wait until the last minute to reach a deal.

He added: “We started to speak in December but I knew it was a huge decision. At that time we were playing every three days. I didn’t want to think too much about that because I wanted to focus on my performances.

“It was difficult for me as I started to have offers from big clubs.”

You could see the disappointment in Flamini’s eyes when the conversation inevitably turned to Wenger’s comments.

The Emirates chief claimed that Flamini joined AC for the money and the Italians had no values.

Flamini said: “I’ve enormous respect for Arsene Wenger. But I did not leave for the money.

“It is not true. I don’t want to comment about what he said or how I felt when I read his comments.

“But I will say I’m leaving for Milan because it’s one of the biggest clubs in the world — with millions of fans everywhere, an enormous history and one of the biggest trophy cabinets in the world.

“Milan are in the Champions League final every couple of years. Arsenal are a big club too and they have ambition.

“But I chose to go to Milan. If you think it was easy for me to leave Arsenal you couldn’t be more wrong.

“Until the last moment I couldn’t make my mind up.

“It breaks your heart to see all these people wanting you to stay. Even on the last day after the Everton game they were not sure I was going to leave because even I was not sure. Then after I passed my medical at Milan I went to see Arsene. It was emotional but he accepted my decision.

“Those who say I left for the money should think that I signed as a 20-year-old and I left with the same salary I had when I came to Arsenal.

“If money was the reason I played for Arsenal, then why did I play for four years with the same contract?”

He added: “I had the chance to go to some of the biggest clubs in Europe. Even if I stayed at Arsenal I’d still have earned a lot of money.

“I took my decision based on what I wanted for the future. Milan is the most decorated club in the world, along with Real Madrid.

“I’m half-Italian and it was an opportunity to go back to my roots. My father Roland is the proudest person in the world that I’ve finally gone to Italy.”

Fellow midfielder Alex Hleb looks ready to follow Flamini out of the Arsenal exit door.

And should that happen there will be questions about the future of Cesc Fabregas.

But Flamini added: “I honestly don’t know what will happen with Cesc or Alex.

“My team-mates knew I had a decision to make and respected it. They know one day they may have to make a decision themselves.”

Gunners set sights on Nasri

Arsenal are believed to be preparing a summer swoop for Marseille starlet Samir Nasri.

The Gunners are keen to bolster their midfield options following the departure of Mathieu Flamini to Milan and have identified the French international as their prime target.

The 21-year-old signed a new long-term contract at Stade Velodrome just a fortnight ago, but it is understood that the deal was only agreed in order to settle a transfer protocol with the Ligue 1 club.

Marseille are subsequently in a position to demand 17.8million euros (£14million) for the player, a figure which Arsene Wenger may struggle to meet.

If the Gunners fail in their attempts to bring the playmaker to Emirates Stadium, Internazionale and Real Madrid are expected to renew the interest they showed in Nasri last year.

Gunners eye Sporting midfielder Miguel Veloso.

With Mathieu Flamini gone and Alexander Hleb seemingly close to an Emirates exit, the latest name being linked with a move to North London to plug the gap is Sporting midfielder Miguel Veloso.

The 22-year-old Portugal international is believed to fit the bill for Wenger, who is looking to replace the Milan-bound Flamini with a similarly defence-minded midfield player.

Reports from Veloso’s homeland suggest that negotiations may be entered into over the coming weeks as The Gunners do not want to lose out on him, as he has also courted interest from Manchester City while being constantly linked with their rivals United over the past 18 months.

A stumbling block appears in the suggested €30 million (£23.9m) release fee clause in Veloso’s contract, a sum that Portuguese publication O Jogo maintains the Arsenal board will meet in order to secure the player’s services.

Wenger sings Song's praises after his late-season surge

Arsène Wenger can remember newspaper articles which claimed that Alex Song is his worst ever buy. Now the Arsenal manager believes his faith in the Cameroon youngster is being rewarded.

Wenger plucked Song from Bastia in the summer of 2005 but first-team chances were few and far between in his first two seasons with the Club. That has all changed now. Song impressed in Arsenal's run to this year's Carling Cup Semi-Finals and, having earned a late call-up to Cameroon's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, was named in the tournament's Best XI.

Injury sidelined Song on his return from Ghana and he was a surprise inclusion to face Manchester United in a vital title clash in April. He barely put a foot wrong at Old Trafford and went on to play every minute of Arsenal's last five Premier League fixtures. Song's performances have surprised those who questioned his ability, but Wenger was never in doubt about the 20-year-old's talents.

"I believe he is a remarkable player and I was one of the very, very few who believed in Alexandre Song," said Wenger at a Q&A with shareholders last week.

"I can show you articles in newspapers which said that [he] was the worst buy I have made but you will see in one or two years that he will be a great player for Arsenal."

Song's late-season surge has prompted speculation that he could replace Mathieu Flamini in the centre of midfield following the Frenchman's decision to join AC Milan. Song is comfortable in the engine room - he shone in that role while on loan at Charlton last season - but Wenger has other plans for the Cameroon international.

"Trust me, if I make a decision it is because I know all the characteristics of the player whether they are physical or mental characteristics," he said.

"When I put a player somewhere, I know why I do. If I play Song at centre back it is because I believe he will be a great centre back for Arsenal Football Club.

"In Song's case, he can play in central midfield. But can he play 60 games there? I am not convinced."

Arsenal to give four stars big rises in salary

Arsenal are poised to reward arguably their four outstanding players of the season with improved contracts this summer.

Manager Arsene Wenger has made it a priority to tie up Cesc Fabregas, Emmanuel Adebayor, Gael Clichy and Bacary Sagna on improved deals.

Representatives of the key first-team players will meet up with acting managing director Ken Friar within weeks as Wenger seeks to put an end to speculation linking Fabregas and Adebayor, in particular, with moves to the Continent.

The Arsenal boss has repeatedly said that it is just as much of an imperative to keep hold of his existing players as draft in new ones, an especially topical issue as Alexander Hleb prepares to follow Mathieu Flamini to Italy.

Wenger has a large input in contract discussions and will recommend that the quartet are given significant pay hikes that reflect their status.

Although Fabregas has six years remaining on his contract, which has annual increments built in, and earns about £60,000-a-week, Arsenal know it is a priority to make him the club's top earner to keep Barcelona and Real Madrid at bay.

Fabregas wants to stay, but his new advisers have told him that he now has 'galactico' status and should expect a contract to match.

Adebayor signed a two-year extension to his four-year contract last spring but he is in a strong negotiating position after scoring 30 goals last season.

While dismissing suggestions that he was seeking to leave the Gunners, the Togolese said this week that he would like to play for Barcelona one day, and while this comment may be designed to draw Arsenal to the negotiating table, he can expect an offer that nearly doubles his £35,000-a-week salary. Sagna has had a superb debut campaign and will seek a contract that doubles his £20,000-a-week wage.

His fellow Frenchman, Clichy, will also expect to join the squad's middle bracket of earners after establishing himself as Ashley Cole's successor at left-back.

The club's main attention will focus on keeping star men Fabregas and Adebayor happy.

Clichy closing on new deal

n a refreshing interview, Gael Clichy has distanced himself from speculation about a possible transfer, claiming he is about to sign a two-year contract extension with Arsenal.

The defender, voted left back of the season, is happy with The Gunners and is in talks about a new deal.

“We are on the verge of ending the negotiations,” he told France-Football.

“Everything is alright because my intention is very clear: I want to stay at Arsenal.

“I would like to have a career like Vieira or Henry, staying several years at Arsenal and making my name part of their history.

“I have been in London for five years. If everything is alright, I will stay here for a minimum of eight years.

“We are discussing about two more years. During that period, the coach will still be at the club.

“He is the one who made me come, it’s him who built the young team.

“It’s a superb project to be part of this squad’s future.

“Arsenal are one of the biggest clubs in Europe. It’s ideal for youngsters, the coach lets us play, trust us.

“We play in a passionate championship, the best in the world.”

The player has been told that he could buy-out his contract, using the Webster clause, but it would appear he has no intention of doing so.

He added: “No. These are laws, rules, on the ones clubs and players can act.

“That is not my state of mind. I love this club, I am very attached to it, I did not want to do this."

Clichy commented Mathieu Flamini’s move to Milan.

“Everybody takes their own decisions. I respect Mathieu’s choice,” added: “AC Milan are an opportunity that is not presented every day.

“But it does not mean that because this player or that player has gone that I am going to follow them.

“It will not change my state of mind. Even if it is possible to experience something beautiful elsewhere, in other leagues, I am convinced that our team can go to the top.”

The full back was then told about the reported interest from Milan, Real Madrid and Juventus, and asked if he had been contacted.

He added: “No. There is a difference between keeping an eye on someone and really wanting to sign him.

“My agents deal with this. Thinking of Real or to another club is not my objective. My objective is Arsenal.”

Viera hopes gallas remains as Arsenal captain

Patrick Vieira fears that William Gallas may suffer psychologically if he is relieved of the captain's armband at Arsenal.

The former Chelsea defender was handed the role this season in the wake of Thierry Henry's departure for Barcelona last summer.

The early effect of Gallas' leadership skills were initially hailed as The Gunners enjoyed a blistering start to the 2007/08 campaign.

However, an extraordinary act of public emotion from the Frenchman against Birmingham City in February was followed by a torrid run of form which saw Arsenal's season crumble around them.

It has since been claimed that manager Arsene Wenger may relieve Gallas of his duties; but Vieira believes the decision could result in the undoing of his compatriot and, in turn, the Arsenal squad.

"I think it has been difficult for him. I have been talking to him and he has been hurt by the criticism he has received," former Gunner Vieira said at an event run by Ford's Feel Football debate website www.feelfootball.com.

"Of course, he had a difficult moment. He is a really strong player who is committed to the club. He wants to prove that he deserves to be Arsenal captain, I know he wants to be a successful captain at Arsenal, and he will do everything he can.

"He is a really emotional person sometimes. He expresses his feelings and that is why he is so popular on the French national team.

"I hope he stays as captain. I think he is a leader of the team. He has experience. I think he has the full support of the players.

"It would have a bad effect on him (if he lost the captaincy) and everybody else in the team as well. If you had the captaincy taken off you after a year it would be difficult psychologically to start the next season not as captain.

"He might think about what he did wrong and think that he lost the manager and the players' trust. It would be a big blow for him and for the club and players."