Freddie Ljungberg has no intention of
becoming the latest Arsenal veteran to fall victim to Arsene
Wenger's relentless focus on youth.
In the past two years, The Gunners' longest-serving player has seen
experienced team-mates such as Patrick Vieira, Robert Pires, Sol
Campbell and Lauren all make way for the precocious bunch of
youngsters fostered by the French boss.
Reports in January suggested that Ljungberg was close to joining
that illustrious list, with West Ham and various Italian clubs
mooted as possible destinations for the player who moved to North
London in 1998.
Impressive performances from Alexander Hleb and Tomas Rosicky had
put considerable pressure on the Swedish international but he
returned from a two-month lay-off to score a crucial goal in the
3-1 FA Cup win over Bolton on Wednesday night.
Whilst Ljungberg is pleased to see young talent emerging at
Emirates Stadium, the two-time Premiership winner insists he is not
ready to step into the shadows just yet.
"It's a good thing that we have such a lot of really good young
players, but I've been here for nine years and I'm feeling quite
good," said Ljungberg.
"The young players are doing really well. Arsene always puts them
in for the Carling Cup and I think that's a great way of doing it,
because it gives the players vital experience.
"They've played very well in those games this season to reach the
final. And we're pleased to be doing so well in the FA Cup, Carling
Cup and Champions League."
The Gunners face Blackburn in the FA Cup fifth round on Saturday
after seeing off Bolton, and Ljungberg admits it felt special to
make a scoring comeback in a competition he has a special affinity
with.
The Swede has won the prestigious competition three times, as well
as scoring in two separate finals, and Ljungberg is now looking to
help the club win some more silverware after returning from a
two-month absence.
"I've been in England a long time and you really get a feeling for
the FA Cup," added Ljungberg. "I've played in four finals and it's
very, very special. It's a very special feeling when you score in
the FA Cup.
"I wanted to get back quickly from my hamstring problem but when I
did, I broke down again and had to take it easy.
"It's been very boring and frustrating being out injured, but when
you come back and score it makes it all worth it."
