Wenger expects Gallas stay

Gallas: Going nowhere

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger insists William Gallas' future remains at Emirates Stadium.

The Frenchman has endured a difficult campaign with the Gunners this term, suffering a loss of form and hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

An ill-advised outburst earlier in the season saw him stripped of the captain's armband and sparked rumours of an imminent exit.

However, while Gallas has made no secret of his desire to end his career in his homeland, Wenger believes a marked improvement in his performances of late have demonstrated the 31-year-old's continued commitment to the club.

"His future is here and it is bright," said the Arsenal chief.

"I believe he has shown that the only answer in football is quality performances."

Wenger added: "William has had a little ankle problem for a while and we want to cure it. He will be back for Sunday (against Burnley) probably."

Gallas has formed part of a defensive unit which has proved impenetrable of late - going six games without conceding a goal.

Spirit

Wenger has welcomed this stability, believing solid foundations are vital to any successful side.

"We want to keep the focus on that strength.

"We are in the final sprint of the season and you can see that it's vital and very, very important.

"You can only make results everywhere if you feel strong defensively."

Wenger is slightly more concerned with his goal-shy strike force, but believes his squad possesses the necessary quality to break a run of four consecutive goalless draws in the Premier League.

"We just need to continue to focus," he said.

"I believe the spirit of the team is great, the focus they have in training is great and they will be rewarded - I have never seen a team not being rewarded for that kind of spirit and quality."