Van Bronckhorst fuels Adams quit speculation

Giovanni van Bronckhorst has added weight to stories that Tony Adams is about to retire by paying a heart-felt tribute to his Arsenal captain.

Adams has yet to officially announce that he is ending his 22-year career with the Gunners, but he has been strongly linked with the managerial vacancies at Watford and Brighton.

Foot, calf, knee and back injuries prevented him from holding down a regular place in Arsene Wenger's first-team last season, and finishing his career with the double last season would seem the perfect way to bow out.

Dutch midfielder van Bronckhorst told Icons.com: "He obviously decided it was time to quit while he was at the top.

"He was part of the team that won a league and cup double last year, and that's an amazing way to end your career.

"Tony can look back and be very proud of what he has achieved during his career. He has had an amazing time in football, and I think many players would love to look back and have achieved half of what Tony has."

Van Bronckhorst added: "I'm sure it will be difficult for things not to change a bit with Tony going.

"He has done great things for the club and for football in general in England, and I'm sure he will be missed by a lot of people, and not just people associated with Arsenal.

"In the short time that I've been at Arsenal I have developed a great respect for Tony Adams, and it's impossible not to be impressed by the influence he has had on the team and especially the younger players.

"He has shown over the years what a strong person he is, and what a tough character he is.

"Of course, he will be massively missed by everybody at Arsenal, although I'm sure he will be there, supporting the lads.

"I don't know what he has planned, but he would be an asset at any club in any role."