Djourou's future is not in midfield
Johan Djourou says his long term future at Arsenal is as a defender.
Djourou joined the Gunners from Swiss side Etoile Carouge in 2003, and earlier this year signed a new, long-term deal with the Gunners.
The 22-year-old started off as a midfielder, but says his long-term future is at the back.
"We have had that discussion with the boss, and he sees me as a centre-back in a 4-4-2," he said.
"If I was playing in front of the defence, maybe it would be a bit different. I would be able to do a good job, but I think I am better off in the back.
"Of course if the boss asks me to play there now I would, but he has different options and I have to respect that."
The departure of his fellow Switzerland international Philippe Senderos on loan to AC Milan gave Djourou a chance to impress this season, stepping in at centre-back following injuries to William Gallas and Kolo Toure.
The Gunners will be looking to force themselves back into the Premier League title race and Djourou is eager to secure himself a regular place in the first team.
He returned to the Emirates Stadium at the start of the year, fully focused after a loan spell with Birmingham.
"It has been a good year for me. I came back from on loan injured, but I put my head down and kept working hard because I wanted to be at my best, and that is what I am showing at the moment," Djourou said.
"Going out on loan helped me because I came back ready to show that I am good and ready for it. That helped me a lot. Watching and learning from guys like William and Kolo did too.
"I have shown the boss he can count on me and I am going to show him that he can count on me all the way."
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