Arsenal exit would be disaster, says Djourou

Gunners defender calls on team-mates to think positively after setback in Braga

Gordon Tynan
Wednesday 24 November 2010 20:00 EST
Comments
(REUTERS)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

It would be a "disaster" if Arsenal failed to make the knock-out stages of the Champions League, according to Johan Djourou, while his team-mate Denilson has apologised to supporters in the wake of a second embarrassing defeat in the space of four days.

Tuesday night's 2-0 loss in Braga means Arsenal's attempt to qualify for the last 16 will be determined by the final group game against Partizan Belgrade at the Emirates on 8 December.

"If we didn't qualify, it would be a disaster," Djourou admitted after another poor defensive display from Arsenal condemned the London side to defeat in Portugal. "But we shouldn't think we are not going to qualify. We have to think positively. This defeat was a shock for everyone and we need to bounce back. We have the players to do it, it is just how much we want it – and we do want to win a trophy."

Denilson faces a run in the starting XI now with Cesc Fabregas out for a couple of weeks following his hamstring injury in Portugal. He said: "It is very disappointing and we are very sad about it. For the fans, I am very sorry for this match and the last game [Tottenham] as well."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in