Usmanov makes Arsenal pledge

Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov has “no intention” of bowing to global economic pressure by selling his Arsenal shares – because he loves the club too much.

Despite an international financial crisis which has reportedly wiped significant value from the personal fortunes of both Usmanov and his fellow mega-rich Russian, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, he will be making no concessions when it comes to the Gunners.

“I’m in love with Arsenal. I have no intention of selling my stake,” Usmanov told The Guardian.

His emotional attachment to the club is akin to an intimate human relationship - leaving him with no other option but to keep it intact.

“When a man loves a woman he can’t conceivably sell that love,” Usmanov explained.