Arsene Wenger says Mohamed Elneny ‘works hard and is generous’ and confirmed that he turned down interest from clubs eager to sign the 25-year-old last summer.
The Egypt international, who was recently rewarded with a new contract, revealed this week that he never gave up hope of establishing himself as a regular at the Emirates even though he’d fallen down the midfield pecking order.
He’s gone on to make 26 appearances this term demonstrating a valuable versatility in his ability to float between defensive and attacking duties.
Speaking after Thursday’s 2-2 draw with CSKA Moscow, in which Elneny registered a brace of assists, Wenger touched on why he wanted to keep the former-Basel midfielder.
“He a super-popular player and everybody inside the club loves him,” he told Arsenal.com.
“But he’s not only loved, he is also a very good player and he showed that in Moscow.
“I never wanted him to leave, I always wanted him to stay. I must say that we had demands for him but he always wanted to stay too.
“In the second half in Moscow he played in defence and then afterwards, when he moved back into the middle of the park, he gave assists. He works hard and is generous. Overall, I think he did very well.”
Thursday’s performance capped off a good week for the Egyptian who also saw his red card against Southampton overturned by the FA. The decision means Mo will be able for the next three Premier League games.
“I’m very happy [about the red card decision] because I think it was a wise decision and he will be available for Newcastle,” added Wenger.
Quality player
Very good player and top bloke. One of those who you want to see doing well. Never ever moans when he’s on the bench and plays well whenever he’s on the pitch. Not many like him these days.
Best Egyptian in the league BY FAR
Spot on mate!
King of Egypt
Mo Salah is Egyptian…in case you forgot.
It was sarcasm, but he did forget to use the sarcasm font.
He was relying on people’s intelligence to work it out.
Mo is the best.
Hard-working, selfless, tireless, and a good team player. Love that he’s staying, and also that he got a couple of really good assists on Thursday. Doesn’t change our obvious need for midfielders/defenders, but is an excellent squad player who won’t rock the boat and give his all when called upon. Can’t ask for more… well maybe a few more goals!
Mo-re assists and kickass performances, please!
in wengers eyes, he is a squad player, no more no less, that’s it
Said all season and last he should play holding mid – -alongside xhaka away from home. To allow Ramsey ozil, and another to get forward with a safety net behind them
Definitely agree with you. Xhaka is criticised because he leaves us exposed at times, but with Mo beside him, we’d have much better balance. Almost makes me sad to say it, but he deserves a spot in the middle above Wilshere at the moment, both in terms of form and team balance.