Ljungberg has Gunners future - Wenger

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists Freddie Ljungberg still has “a lot to offer” the Gunners.

The Swedish midfielder has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium in recent days after struggling to secure a regular place in Wenger’s team this season.

Ljungberg, 29, is currently out of the side with a hamstring injury, but Wenger insists that, when fit, he can still play a major role for the north Londoners.

“There has been much speculation about Freddie Ljungberg in the media over the last few days,” Wenger told the club’s official website, www.arsenal.com.

“But given his dedication and contribution to the team’s success since joining the club I feel it is important to state that Freddie is a valuable member of our squad.

“Although I can’t predict the future, Freddie’s experience and winner’s attitude means he still has a lot to offer.”

The strength in depth of Arsenal’s squad was emphatically demonstrated last night when a team comprised mainly of youngsters humbled Liverpool 6-3 at Anfield in the Carling Cup quarter-finals.

Ljungberg has featured in just 10 of Arsenal’s 22 Barclays Premiership games this term, with competition from the likes of Alexander Hleb and Tomas Rosicky meaning his place is no longer assured when fit.

The Sweden captain signed from Halmstads for £3m in September 1998.