Ben Arfa happy at Lyon

Lyon starlet dismisses Arsenal speculation

By Patrick Haond   Last updated: 15th April 2008

Hatem Ben Arfa 2008

Ben Arfa: Arsenal target

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Lyon winger Hatem Ben Arfa has rejected speculation that he is looking to leave the Ligue 1 leaders, despite reported interest from Arsenal.

Ben Arfa has rarely featured in the first-team plans of manager Alain Perrin in the second half of the season and discussions over a new contract have dragged on.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is understood to be monitoring the situation as he eyes potential summer signings.

But Ben Arfa, 21, insists he has no wish to leave Lyon and is confident he will agree a new deal at the Stade de Gerland at the end of the season.

"I am disappointed not to be playing more often," Ben Arfa told L'Equipe. "I realise a lot of people are surprised to see me on the bench.

Desire

"But I can just hope to be back in the starting XI. I can't do much more as the manager has not told me why I am a substitute. I still have hope and desire.

"The negotiations with Lyon are improving. I feel fine at Lyon. My future is not an issue, so far, and we will see that at the end of the season."

Meanwhile, Perrin says the reason for Ben Arfa's limited first-team opportunities has been down to the form of forwards Abdulkader Keita, Fred and Karim Benzema.

"Competition is harsh at Lyon," Perrin added. "Hatem hasn't had the same attacking impact as in the first half of the season.

"Abdulkader Keita has improved greatly since the winter break, Fred and Karim Benzema have scored a lot of goals and play well together."