Wenger sees big future for Park

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger predicts big things from new signing Park Chu-Young and has defended the South Korean’s slow start in London.

Wenger believes the 26-year-old attacker has what it takes to be a success at Arsenal, and reminded people that Gunners legends Thierry Henry and Robert Pires took time to settle at the club too.

Park was signed by Wenger in late August from French Ligue 2 club Monaco but has only made one appearance since, in the League Cup against Shrewsbury.

Despite his struggle for game-time at club level, the South Korea international skipper has been in fine form with his country, netting seven goals in four matches since joining Arsenal.

Wenger told Arsenal Player he knew Park was an intelligent player with a good attitude, and backed him to succeed at the club.

“Some players like Pires and Henry took four, five, six months and they became exceptional players. Park arrived two months ago so that’s normal,” Wenger said.

“Some people judged our players very quickly in a negative way and slowly they changed their mind through their performances. I prefer it that way round than the other.”

“Some players make you jump off your seat in the early stages and then disappoint you after. These players will win over all the sceptical people and Park is one of them.”

“I have been impressed by his intelligence and his attitude. He is well-appreciated and rated by his team-mates and by the staff as well – we think he is a quality player.”