Gunners boss grateful for African influence

There are few managers who have dealt with more players than Arsene Wenger, but the man celebrating 20 years at the Arsenal helm has given special praise to the African players in his career.

Wenger has been credited with rejuvenating the careers of players from the continent, with the likes of Kanu and Kolo Toure becoming regular fans’ favourites at Highbury and the Emirates Stadium.

Emmanuel Adebayor, Lauren and Emmanuel Eboue have also come through under Wenger’s tutelage, with the man who has been in the management game for more than 30 years having particular acclaim for those from the continent.

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“African players had a massive impact on my career because I always managed them right from the moment I started in the top league in France,” said Wenger.

“I had African players at Monaco and I like the fact that they were creative and they are usually attacking players with imagination.

“They have pace and power as well, and they usually combine strength and agility well. That’s very difficult to find.

“Africans are hugely passionate people and there is a big passion in Africa for the game. They are happy on the football pitch and that’s something which has been fantastic for us.

“Kanu had a massive impact here, Kolo Toure too, I had George Weah too [at Monaco]… so all these players had a massive impact.”