Former Auxerre manager Guy Roux has taken aim at Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby's fitness.

The Frenchman came through the youth ranks at Auxerre under the watchful eye of Roux.

Roux told France Football: "Abou is a rare and exceptional player when he is in full possession of his faculties.

"No player in his position knows how to do what he does. He can eliminate four or five players in a row without retreat. He has a good touch on the ball and a great vision of the game. Abou is a gift of nature for a coach and all lovers of football.

"Unfortunately he lacks strength in his lower limbs. He is mounted on two matches with a spot of glue in the middle.

"The good Lord gave him immense talent, but also made him quite fragile."