Djourou Eyes Midfield Berth

The Swiss international arrived in North London in 2004, and impressed in central defence during his loan spell at Birmingham City this season.

The 21-year-old is generally regarded as the natural successor to the likes of Kolo Toure and William Gallas in the Gunners’ back-line, certainly more so than compatriot Philippe Senderos.

However, it is not widely known that Djourou originally caught Arsene Wenger’s eye playing in defensive midfield for Swiss club Etoile Carouge – a position both player and manager feel is his most suitable.

Possibilities

"Playing in front of the defence is the position where my qualities are expressed best," he told Tribune de Geneve.

"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."

Future

If this news had broken six months ago, Djourou’s future would have been in serious doubt due to a pile-up of talent in the Arsenal midfield.

He only managed two appearances for the Gunners after returning from Birmingham, having suffered an ill-timed injury problem that left the club with minimal defensive cover.

But with Mathieu Flamini and Lassana Diarra gone, and Gilberto Silva on the wane, the Ivory Coast-born youngster is likely to receive more opportunities to earn a midfield spot in coming seasons.

And Djourou is in no rush to leave the Emirates, insisting he is confident his time will come.

Potential

"I am only 21 years old," he said. "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."

Mike Maguire