Wenger: I didn’t let Djourou leave because I love him as a player

Arsene Wenger has revealed that he did not let Swiss international Johan Djourou, 25, leave this summer as he simply ‘loves him as a player’.

There was talk of an exit by the defender after he was told by Swiss coach Ottmar Hitzfeld that he was simply not getting the game-time required to verify a place in the national team, but a move never eventuated.

The Swiss defender is definitely not a fan favourite amongst most Gooners, but this is likely to further irk the fans who have called for his departure for some time now.

Wenger is quoted as saying by Sky Sport News:

I didn’t let Djourou leave as I love him as a player, and he loves the club.

While Djourou is obviously not starting centre-back material, I do think that he is at the right level for a fourth choice centre-back in the Premier League and could yet improve under the tutelage of Steve Bould.

We saw last season that Djourou also possesses some versatility playing at right-back for the Gunners when Arsenal suffered an injury crisis in the full-back positions.

Admittedly he has had some howlers in the past, but he has also had some good performances, both of which would be somewhat expected by a fourth-choice center-back. It is simply crazy to think that we could attract someone like M’Biwa and just have him sitting on the bench ‘just in case’.

Don't Miss:

Overall, in terms of talent and skill level, I think it is fair to say that the Swiss international does possess the ability required of his current position in the squad. In terms of wage however, I definitely agree that his role does not justify £50,000 a week and is no doubt the reason why fans give him a torrid time.

What do you guys think of Djourou? Do you think he fulfils his role in the team adequately? Feel free to leave a comment below or discuss Djourou in the allArsenal.com forum.