Arsenal's Johan Djourou: We need to get better and stronger for next season

Posted Monday, June 06, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Arsenal defender Johan Djourou admits he is desperate to improve his performances next season to make the Gunners’ fans proud.

The Swiss international, who featured in the 2-2 draw with England on Saturday, played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s back five last season despite previous problems with injury.

The center-back admitted that he struggled to perform consistently last term but is adamant that the club has to act after finishing yet another season without bringing any trophies back to the Emirates.

He told Sky Sports: "For the team, it was difficult because we were playing for so many trophies at the same time and we were so close to getting one."

"[The season before last] I didn't play a game and to play so many games [this season] and have a good season, I was happy," Djourou said.

"We need to get better, get stronger, and really prepare well for next season."

Manager Arsene Wenger has been criticized by some fans for standing by his strategy of nurturing youngsters rather than signing new players but after another barren season, this summer could see a change of tack.

Names such as Scott Parker, Alex Chamberlain and Peter Odemwingie have been linked with moves to the Emirates and while Djourou is remaining tight-lipped on any potential targets he did welcome the possibility of increased competition for places

"I don't know - that's for the manager to answer,” he added. "I think competition is always good. That pushes you in your position."

"When you want to make a team better, you have to have a good squad. I think that we had a good squad but if players with experience or different players can bring quality, they're welcome."

Switzerland claimed a creditable draw with England at Wembley on Saturday, but it was the defender's foul on teammate Jack Wilshere which allowed England back into the match after going down 2-0 to two first-half goals. Despite letting its lead slip, Djourou was still pleased with his side's performance, but also paid credit to the Three Lions.

He said: "We weren't overconfident because we knew that the English have great qualities and when you play such a great team, you know that, 2-0 up, it's not finished. They showed that in the second half and they came at us really well."

"I think we can be proud of ourselves. We came here to Wembley and played and I think that not many teams have done that before."

"We gave them a lot of trouble by playing the ball, and that's something new for us because, before, we were struggling to make a few passes."

"We made a few mistakes on the goals that we lost, cheap goals, but that's football and you have to take those risks to get better."

Djourou also admitted that he will face some banter from Wilshere over the penalty, but felt he could get the ball.

"Jack will give me stick because of the penalty, of course. I had to make the tackle because I thought I could get the ball, but he played well and he got the penalty."

"Overall, I think Switzerland did well and ultimately we could've won the game. But it was just a bit of a pity at the end."