Arsene Wenger does not want to focus on controversial Emmanuel Adebayor when Arsenal face Tottenham on Sunday

Sep 30, 2011 9:04:00 AM

The Togo striker riled supporters when he ran the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of his former fans while at Manchester City, and French boss wants his side to attack

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is keen to play down any potential issues with Emmanuel Adebayor ahead of his side's clash with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

The Togo international was the cause of much controversy two seasons ago when he ran the length of the pitch to celebrate in front of his former club's fans when he scored against them as a Manchester City player.

There has been much talk about the Tottenham striker ahead of this weekend’s north London derby, but the Arsenal manager is adamant that this will not distract his side from the task ahead.

“There was a controversial situation at Man City last year that was inappropriate. He apologised for it but we do not want to focus on that kind of subject before the game,” he told Arsenal's official website.

Wenger is under no illusion of his former striker’s ability, having seen him make an impressive start with Spurs, netting three goals in three Premier League games, and wants his side to be on the attack to ease the pressure on the back four.

“I do not believe that Adebayor is underrated. People know that he is a very good player so our back four will be vital in this game of course. But overall the more pressure we put on them the less it will be on our defence," he said.

“In this kind of game you want full commitment from everybody but you have to think. We have positive memories [of this fixture] because we didn't ever forget to play our game and that is the focus that is important. Be cool and focus on the play.”

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