Wenger won't sell Bendtner

Bendtner: Not for sale

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has reiterated that Nicklas Bendtner remains an important part of his plans.

The Danish striker recently aired his frustration at a lack of first-team activity, leading to reports that he could be on his way out of the Emirates.

Wenger was quick to refute those rumours, insisting he had no intention of allowing the powerful frontman to leave.

That remains his stance, with the French tactician of the opinion that a fully fit Bendtner can play a leading role for the Gunners for many years to come.

"From what I can see he is 95 per cent of his best and we hope he will contribute on our side to help us win football games and trophies," said Wenger on a player who has been nurtured through the club's academy ranks.

"We do not educate players to let them go."

Balance

While Bendtner continues to work his way back to full fitness, Wenger is also hoping to have Robin van Persie firing on all cylinders again in the near future.

The Dutchman came through 45 minutes for his national side in midweek, following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with an ankle problem, and Wenger is delighted to have welcomed back his considerable firepower.

"Robin has to get used to challenges again but technically and physically he is much better now," he said.

"Like Bendtner, he is reasonably fit but of course players of that calibre are also very impatient to start and I have to consider as well the balance of the team, how well we have done in the last two away games."