Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has backed midfielder Andrey Arshavin as the investigation continues into Russia's drinking and smoking scandal ahead of a World Cup qualifier last month.

Claims that Russian players were drinking and smoking hookah pipes at Moscow's Marriott Grand Hotel on November 13, the day before their World Cup play-off with Slovenia, have been made by both hotel staff and Russia's Channel One TV.

As the Russian FA looks in to the claims, Gunners boss Wenger has distanced Arshavin from the scandal, saying the attacking midfielder is too professional to get caught up in all of this.

"He's a serious player, I don't doubt his commitment at all and I don't believe a word of it," Wenger said.

"When I see him, how he prepares for games, he's an example to other players in his approach."