Wenger - We should respect Cole

By Richard Clarke

Arsène Wenger insists there is no problem between Ashley Cole and Arsenal.

The left back moved to Stamford Bridge in August after coming through the ranks at Highbury and amassing 229 first-team appearances in a red and white shirt.

It was a controversial move and Arsenal FC have requested travelling fans on Sunday to show the 25-year-old respect for his achievements at the Club. His former manager concurs with that view.

"My relationship with him is OK," said Wenger at his pre-match press conference. "He went to Chelsea under special circumstances that have been talked about a lot.

"But I don't forget that he has done well for this Club and you have to respect that.

"He went to Chelsea to continue his career in a decent way and go as high as he can which I am sure he will do. But from our side we respect what he has done for this Club.

"He appreciates what he has done for the Club and what the Club has done for him.

"But in the end he wanted to leave but nothing will stop me from thinking he had done well for us.

"I was prepared for him to leave. I gave him the authorisation to leave one year before he went so I knew he would go."

5/1 - Arsenal to beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge