Russian open to Arsene link-up

Zenit St Petersburg striker Pavel Pogrebnyak has admitted he would welcome the opportunity to work with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. Reports have suggested Wenger could target Pogrebnyak at the end of the season in a bid to improve his attacking options, although the French coach recently stated he "has plenty of strikers" already. The 25-year-old Russia international, who was linked with Blackburn Rovers in the winter transfer window, is flattered by the rumours, with his current contract due to expire in November. "It is the first time I have heard of Arsenal as an option," Pogrebnyak told Sport Express. "But of course I am pleased that the club is interested in me. "I think for any player to have the opportunity to work with Arsene Wenger would be a big step forward."