Arsenal's Thomas Vermaelen signs new four-year contract

Posted Tuesday, October 18, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Arsenal has confirmed that defender Thomas Vermaelen has signed a new four-year deal at the club.

The Belgium international has had a staggered career with the Gunners following an impressive debut season on north London and being named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season in 2009-10, but has battled with constant injury since.

Vermaelen has made 54 appearances so far for Arsenal after his arrival from Dutch outfit Ajax and his current manager Arsene Wenger is pleased the centre-back has signed on for the long-term at the Emirates.

“We are absolutely delighted that Thomas has signed a new long-term contract," Wenger told the club’s website. “Our plan is always to sign top quality players and with Thomas extending his contract, we have done just that. Thomas is a special player, who has always made a huge contribution on the pitch and we are looking forward to him being a part of our future at Arsenal Football Club.”

Vermaelen himself went on to express his jubilation over the new deal and the confidence his club has had in him.

“I am really happy to have signed a new contract with Arsenal," said the Belgian defender. "I always had the intention to stay here. I feel there is a big belief in me from the Club, from the boss and from the fans and that is one of the reasons why I stayed.

“Arsenal is a fantastic Club. We have great supporters, we’re doing well financially and we are playing with some quality young players now and they will develop, which is very good for the future.”