Djourou stays positive

JOHAN DJOUROU admits it will be “a disaster” if Arsenal fail to qualify for the last 16 of the of the Champions League, but remains confident the Gunners can deliver.

After their 2-0 defeat at Braga on Tuesday night, Arsene Wenger’s side know that only a win over Partizan Belgrade on the final night of Group H will guarantee safe passage for the 11th straight season.

The Swiss centre back is not unduly concerned by Arsenal’s chances of going through but he did suggest that missing out on the last 16 is simply inconceivable.

“If Arsenal do not go to the next stage of the Champions League then it is a disaster,” he said. “That should not happen. I won’t even think that is not going to happen. We have to think positively. The Braga game was a negative but we have to think we’ll qualify.’’

Meanwhile, Aaron Ramsey does not intend to “jump back in” as he looks to make up for lost time by returning to the Arsenal first team after nine months on the sidelines, after suffering a horrific broken leg in a challenge with Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross.

“I have another few reserve games planned, with 60 minutes and then a full game — then I can try to fight for my place again.

“I am not going to jump back in, it is going to take a bit of time.’’