Wenger wants more from Adebayor

2008-05-07 15:25

London - Arsene Wenger has warned Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor he can't afford to rest on his laurels.

Adebayor has emerged as one of the most improved players in the Premier League after scoring 30 goals in all competitions for the Gunners this season.

But the Togo international's barren run of one goal in nine games during February and March was a key factor in Arsenal's slide out of contention for the Premier League and Wenger is determined to ensure his forward doesn't get complacent.

"Emmanuel took his tally to 30 for the season with a hat-trick at Derby, but there is some room for him to improve - and that makes me very positive," Wenger said.

"I believe he has to keep a good working attitude. We have seen players before, when they start getting the recognition, they ease off in their team work, and very quickly they die.

"I believe if Ade keeps his work ethic, there is still 20% more to come from him. Does he want it enough - to get this extra 20% out? Well that is where his future lies. If you lose that desire, you quickly become a nobody."

Wenger's decision to pay Monaco seven million pounds for Adebayor in January 2006 raised eyebrows because he had a poor strike-rate in the French league.

But Adebayor has gradually become more prolific since his move to England and his combination of pace and power proved unstoppable for long periods this term, rewarding Wenger for his belief in the 24-year-old.

"He was never prolific at Monaco, but he has worked hard for it at Arsenal and it highlights that our offensive game favours the strikers.

"You will never starve as a striker at Arsenal - you get the quality balls to work with. Ade will be the first to agree with that."

- AFP