Wenger - Eboue's attitude saw him bounce back

By Nick Teale
 
Arsène Wenger believes Emmanuel Eboue's attitude is helping him develop into a "complete player."
 
The Ivorian defender received criticism from the media and some Arsenal fans last season but recent performances have earned him standing ovations from the Emirates Stadium crowd.
 
But that isn't a surprise to manager Wenger, who believes the defender's extrovert personality, positive approach and natural ability have helped him overcome some difficult moments.
 
"I believe it is like Theo [Walcott]," said the Frenchman. "He [Eboue] was criticised last year and came back with the right attitude. Put the right performances in and people will love you.
 
"We are not loved for what you say when you are a football player but for what you produce on the football pitch. Sometimes we tend to forget that. He did that right. Theo did too.
 
"He [Eboue] is developing into a complete player - he can play full-back, right midfield, left midfield. He is a great football player. Emmanuel Eboue starts now to get the credit he deserves. He has a fantastic attitude and loves the game.
 
"He is an extrovert who has some talents not only on the football pitch but he can be funny. He uses that in a very positive way for a good mood in the squad.
 
"His best position is right back or right midfield. When we want to be a bit more solid we use Sagna and him on the right flank.
 
"But he is a very creative player. Full-back is a very important position in modern football, if you start well there - the quality of your pass and of getting out of pressure most of the time in the modern game comes through the wings and starts with the full-backs."

[Friday, March 12, 2010]

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