Arsene Wenger has opted for caution following Abou Diaby’s niggling hip injury sustained against Finland last Friday. He most likely will not feature in Arsenal’s home game this Saturday against the Saints as a precautionary measure. Which given Diaby’s extensive history of being crocked is probably a wise thing to do.
The French midfielder’s early performances have received rave reviews but keeping him fit for a whole season will be a monumental undertaking. Guy Roux said Diaby “is mounted on two matches with a spot of glue in the middle.” Wenger might rue rushing him out before recovering fully.
Diaby, however hopes to be back for their Champions League opener facing Montpellier this coming Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Bacary Sagna has been given some face time with Wenger after his statements in an interview questioning why Arsenal chose to sell of two of their best players in Robin Van Persie and Alex Song. He also claimed no contact from Arsenal on offering an extension deal with his contract entering its final year after this season. Wenger was quite blunt saying his attitude was anyone who felt dissatisfied was free to leave. But he felt Sagna was not unhappy and only his negative comments were highlighted. The Arsenal manager was quite confident Sagna would be offered an extension but it would not be a five year one with the full back hitting 30 years of age next February.
“I expect him to stay and I want him to stay,” Wenger said. “The interview does not really reflect what he thinks about the club and the love he has for the club.”
On a more positive note, Sagna might be back in two or three weeks. Jack Wilshere’s rehab is going well and the midfielder should be joining training soon. Wojciech Szczesny has recovered from a rib injury and should be available for the Southampton match.