by Nick Rostron-Pike
Ray Parlour believes Arsene Wenger played Andrey Arshavin in the wrong position – and admits his Arsenal career is far from secure.
The midfield playmaker was in superb form on Friday night as Russia got their Euro 2012 campaign off a great start with a 4-1 win over the Czech Republic in Group A.
Arshavin, 31, has suffered a largely torrid time at the Emirates following his £16million move from Zenit St Petersburg in 2009, and he spent the last six months on loan at his former side after failing to secure a spot in Arsene Wenger’s first team.
But former Gunners favourite Parlour claims the Russian might not be completely to blame for his mixed fortunes in the Premier League.
“You could say that he was played in the wrong position at Arsenal,” Parlour told the Weekend Sports Breakfast. “Arsene Wenger’s always played him on the left hand side and he’s more of a central player.
“I’m sure Arsene will be watching and wondering why he couldn’t do that for Arsenal. He never played like that which is frustrating for the fans, Arsene Wenger and the players.”
Arshavin looked set to leave Arsenal this summer following his successful loan return to his homeland and Parlour admits his future is far from clear.
“Let’s see what happens with him,” he said. “I’m not sure whether he’ll go back to Arsenal or they’ll try and sell him.”
