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Rice played more than 500 games for Arsenal

Arsene Wenger says Pat Rice has told him he wants to continue as the Arsenal manager's number two next season.

The 62-year-old Rice's current deal expires in the summer.

"I think Pat Rice will continue for one more year - he has told me," said Wenger. "The day he stops will be a massive loss for the club.

"It is important for me because he knows how I work. We have a good understanding. I am happy that he goes on for one more year."

Former Northern Ireland international Rice played more than 500 games for Arsenal and had a spell as caretaker manager in 1996 before Wenger's arrival.

"We will see, after one more year maybe he will say one more year again," added the Arsenal boss. "We will have to prepare."

Wenger, whose side face Aston Villa at the Emirates on Sunday, also revealed that he is "thinking" about adding to his backroom staff as he reflects on a sixth successive season without a trophy.

Academy coach Steve Bould and Arsenal great Dennis Bergkamp, currently working for Ajax, as well as former Colchester, Hull and Charlton manager Phil Parkinson have been touted as possible new additions to Wenger's coaching team.

Parkinson has been doing some scouting for the club.

With two games remaining in the season and just two points ahead of Manchester City, Arsenal are not yet certain of securing third place in the Premier League.