Almost fit-again Vermaelen signs new contract with Arsenal

Oct 18, 2011, 15:41 GMT

London - Arsenal received a double boost on Tuesday when defender Thomas Vermaelen signed a new long-term deal and then revealed he is close to resuming full training after two months out through injury.

The Belgium captain missed much of last season and has not played since August 24.

But after signing a new 'long-term deal' Vermaelen said he intends to repay the club's faith in him by returning to the first team very soon.

'I am really happy to have signed a new contract with Arsenal,' he said. '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.

'I feel great at the moment. I am doing a lot of stuff on the pitch now. It's been going really well and I think I can go into full training very soon - that will be good for me.'

Wenger said he was delighted one of his most important players had shown the commitment to the team he wants to see in all of his squad.

'Our plan is always to sign top quality players and with Thomas extending his contract, we have done just that,' Wenger said.

'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.'

Read more about Arsenal