Thomas Vermaelen has refused to comment on being dropped to the Arsenal bench in recent games. "Of course I want to play every game," the Belgian told Sky Sports.

"You play for a big club so you know that can happen and I have played a lot of games, and I am not out of the rhythm at the moment and I am not worried. I am working hard every day on the pitch to do well."

He was also asked about his future at the Emirates, after being linked with the likes of Barcelona and Manchester City.

"Nothing I have heard so I can't say anything about it," he said.