Ade gets Wenger backing

Arsenal boss believes striker will recapture support of fans

By Laura Slatcher   Last updated: 3rd August 2008

Emmanuel Adebayor

Adebayor: Wenger support

Arsene Wenger is backing Emmanuel Adebayor to once again become a fans' favourite after he agreed to remain with Arsenal.

The Togo international received a mixed reception when his name was announced before the Gunners' 1-0 defeat to Juventus in the Emirates Cup on Saturday.

The 24-year-old ended speculation of a move away from Emirates Stadium after pledging that he is ready to sign a new one-year contract extension.

AC Milan and Barcelona were interested in signing the striker but Adebayor insists he is happy to stay in North London.

Frustration

Arsenal boss Wenger understands the fans' frustrations and reveals he was never in any doubt that Adebayor would remain an Arsenal player.

"I feel our fans are behind him, I feel that was more disappointed love," said Wenger.

"To me, face to face, he always told me he wants to stay at the club, and it finished like that, so I believe what he told me.

"He is not going anywhere - even if you come with a 747 plane full of money."

Signings

Wenger fielded a young side in their defeat to Juventus and admits an experienced midfielder is his top priority.

But the Arsenal boss insisted the club have not made a bid for Aston Villa's unsettled captain Gareth Barry.

"We are not close to signing anybody and I will focus on the players I have," added Wenger.

"If we can find someone, then we will do it. If not, I am happy as well."

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