Transfer Centre

Ray Parlour: Andrey Arshavin future unclear

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 10 June 2012

Ray Parlour says that Andrey Arshavin prefers a central role, as opposed to the wide-left position that Arsene Wenger has deployed him in for Arsenal.

Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour believes that Arsene Wenger has played Andrey Arshavin out of position for the Gunners.

Doubts have been cast over the 31-year-old's future at the Emirates Stadium after he was shipped out to Zenit St Petersburg on loan last season, just over two years since his £16m move from the Russian side.

Arshavin played a starring role for Russia as they trounced the Czech Republic 4-1 in their opening game of the Euro 2012 championship.

That showing has sparked further speculation over his future, with Parlour suggesting that his career in North London hangs in the balance.

"You could say that he was played in the wrong position at Arsenal," Parlour told talkSPORT. "Arsene Wenger's always played him on the left-hand side and he's more of a central player.

"I'm sure Arsene will be watching and wondering why he couldn't do that for Arsenal. He never played like that which is frustrating for the fans, Arsene Wenger and the players.

"Let's see what happens with him. I'm not sure whether he'll go back to Arsenal or they'll try and sell him."

Arshavin has 72 caps for his country.