Arsenal Football Club News

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• Manager:Arsene Wenger

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Diarra reveals quit reasons

03 Sep 2007 - 10:52:32

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New Arsenal recruit Lassana Diarra has launched a thinly-veiled attack on Chelsea following his switch to the Emirates Stadium.

The 22-year-old Frenchman joined the Gunners for an undisclosed fee just minutes before Friday's transfer deadline and admitted he did so due to a lack of first-team opportunities at Stamford Bridge.

Diarra made 23 appearances for the Blues last season, but was often employed as a makeshift right-back after a defensive injury crisis.

"I needed to play and get more time on the pitch and I don't think it would be possible at Chelsea," he told The Sun.

"At Chelsea, we had Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard, Claude Makelele and Michael Essien in midfield.

"I know it will be tough to make it at Arsenal as well. I have no guarantee from Arsene Wenger I will play all the time but I am sure that it will be okay.

"I know I will play big matches in the league and even in the Champions League."

Diarra had made just one Chelsea appearance this season as a second-half substitute during the Community Shield defeat to Manchester United.