Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is confident Abou Diaby can fulfil his potential at the Emirates provided he avoids further injury setbacks. The 26-year-old Frenchman has endured a long list of injury setbacks throughout his Gunners career.
"With the way we have structured the team, Diaby is an important part of the puzzle in our team because he adds qualities that we need in the middle of the park," Wenger said.
"He has power and long strides. Diaby is the closest to Patrick Vieira in his style that we have seen for a long time."
After a string of problems, Wenger now feels Diaby will get the chance to fulfil his undoubted potential.
"I faced exactly the same questions with (Robin) van Persie and for a while everybody thought Van Persie will never play a season, but last year he played 55 games," he added.
"They can get over this cycle, but you always have a little fear that another injury can come in.
"We had that for a long time with Van Persie and suddenly he got over it and I hope Diaby is over it now as well."
