The pair have been used at the heart of the Gunners defence this season, but Wenger admits he is happy to throw the 21-year-old into the fray this term.

"Djourou is not comparable to the player he was six months ago," Wenger told the club's official website.

"He has gained in personality, in determination and in quality. I spoke with the Swiss national team coach (Ottmar Hitzfeld) last week and I was telling him how good he is.

"He is pushing all the other players [at Arsenal]. At the back you want players who are strong in the duels and strong in the air.

"Johan's size is a big advantage. He is among the top quality."