Wenger confident Cole will remain an Arsenal player

ARSENE WENGER is “convinced” Ashley Cole wants to stay at Arsenal.

The England full-back received a mixed reception from some sections of the home support on his first return to action at Highbury during Saturday’s 4-1 win over Norwich.

Cole, 24, though, remains an integral part of the Gunners’ plans, according to Wenger, who maintains he has been given clear indications of the players’ willingness to stay.

“Maybe there were 100 people, but we have 37,900 who are behind him,” the Arsenal manager said. “I think people were behind him and I think that is important. Slowly he is getting focused and a committed attitude.”

Wenger added: “I am convinced [he will stay] and I will try everything to keep him here. To extend his contract [is the next step], at the right salary. We have to maybe wait until this case goes through, because his agent is involved as well.”

One of Cole’s reported grievances was said to be over wages, which the England international felt should have been substantially increased.

Wenger, though, maintained the full-back’s financial terms would be much improved, should he agree to remain at Arsenal.

“What Chelsea spend is not linked with their income and that makes it difficult, not for Arsenal only but also for everybody,” reflected the coach.

“When we are in there, the competition is not linked with any reasonable numbers that you can spend. So the competition is a little bit artificial on wages. We are in line with what is happening in the top clubs.”

The comfortable win over the Premiership strugglers - where Thierry Henry smashed a hat-trick to move within four of Ian Wright’s all-time scoring record - lifted Arsenal above Manchester United into second place.

Wenger said: “For me the most important thing is the championship, the European Cup will come, but this year we were not equipped enough.”