Arsene Wenger believes the best way for his jet-setting squad to prepare for the World Cup is to first deliver a successful season with Arsenal.
The vast majority of the Gunners squad have been away with their respective countries around the globe during the international break, not to mention trio Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs all playing for England Under-21s.
As well as action in Europe, where striker Nicklas Bendtner helped Denmark book their place in South Africa next summer, Carlos Vela was on target for Mexico, also now already safely qualified, while Alex Song's Cameroon will join Emmanuel Eboue's Ivory Coast in the finals with just one more win.
Wenger, though, did not get his wish for all those involved to avoid a crucial play-off next month - with France quartet Gael Clichy, Abou Diaby, William Gallas and Bacary Sagna set for more action, along with Russian playmaker Andrey Arshavin.
Nevertheless, the Arsenal manager feels consistency at club level is a prerequisite for a strong showing on the biggest stage of all next summer. "I am keen for them to qualify, hopefully as quickly as possible as group winners, because that would preclude them from having to play a decisive play-off game in November," Wenger said.
"I am convinced it is important for the players to go to the World Cup, but as well I know that those who have a good World Cup are those who win with their clubs during the season. We have seen that before here [with France], and so the most important thing is that they do well with the club and it puts you in a strong position confidence-wise for what follows."
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goodluck all 'round. get plenty on the ghana v brazil u-20 world cup final later today, including live commentary. visit africaplays.come now.
Mr Wenger You are a class act with a superb football team, a joy to watch, pure class how the game should be played.
Yes you lost to my beloved MU and that @#$% across the road. Having said that if MU fail to retain their crown, I hope Arsenal win the title.
Great football. MU FANATIC
The players will only perform well n the world cup if they perform well for the club.Wenger does not want any of his players to be playing in extra play off matches.
I will not miss arsenal during the world cup because almost all our players will be there. So, I will have so much to watch in south Africa. Go gunners! Go!
Rarelly do stars just appear without performing excellently for their clubs. Wenger is right and does not want his players to be involved in an extra mach, ie play off.
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