Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is ready to stick with Thomas Vermaelen.

The Sunday Mirror says there was talk that Rafa Benitez would attempt to take the Belgian to Napoli, but it now appears ­Vermaelen wants to fight to regain his place.

Indeed, he was fearful that Wenger would regard him as surplus to ­requirements.

But Wenger admires the attitude and professionalism of Vermaelen, who can also play at left-back, as well as in central defence.