Thomas Vermaelen says he’s spoken to Arsene Wenger about the fact he hasn’t played much this season, but says he’s not panicking even though there’s a World Cup on the horizon.

The Belgian has made only two appearances and started just once, in the Capital One Cup against West Brom. He was dropped at the end of last season and the successful partnership between Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny has precluded his return to the side.

Like any player he’s frustrated, but knows that things can change very quickly. Asked about his situation, he said, “I’ll have to think about that when it’s necessary. January is still a few months ahead. Of course, never playing will not be the ideal situation for me to go to the World Cup, that’s for sure.



“People ask me if I panic because I’m not playing a lot but I’m not. I have spoken to the manager but it will remain private between us. Things can happen in a split second and change my situation. That can happen tomorrow or next weekend.



“In that case, we will speak differently in January. I have to be ready for that.”

Regardless of what happens between now and then, there’s little chance of a January move just to salvage his World Cup hopes.

It’s forgotten that last season Koscielny was the one who found himself benched but came back into the side to finish strongly. All it takes is one injury or suspension and the captain is back in the team, especially when we have only three established centre-halves at the club.

Let’s hope he takes his chance when it comes. And it will come.