Arsene Wenger has
reiterated his commitment to Arsenal following the shock exit of
The Gunners' vice-chairman David Dein.
Dein left Arsenal on Wednesday citing irreconcilable differences
with the club's board and the exit immediately prompted speculation
over the future of Wenger, given the close relationship between the
Frenchman and his champion.
Wenger admits Dein's departure 'is a sad day for the club' but was
keen to reassure Gunners supporters over his own future.
"It is a sad day for Arsenal Football Club," Wenger told Arsenal's
official website.
"It is a huge disappointment because we worked very closely
together. David has contributed highly to the success of the club
in the last 10 years and even before that as well. Red and white
are the colours of his heart."
Wenger, though, insists his relationship with the Arsenal board
remains a healthy one.
"My position is that I am linked with the club very strongly. The
relationship with the rest [of the Board] has always been very good
and we try always to have a good understanding."
The news will come as a major boost to the club ahead of Saturday's
North London derby against Tottenham.
Cesc Fabregas is a major doubt for the clash, with Wenger admitting
the virus-ridden midfielder is only '50-50' to take part.
"Cesc has a little sickness. He will have a test tomorrow to see
how he feels. As it stand he is 50-50 today [Thursday]. We will not
gamble on him. He is not injured but he has caught a
virus."