Nicklas Bendtner says Gunners were unable to sign a replacement.
Nicklas Bendtner has revealed Arsenal blocked a move away from the Emirates Stadium this summer because the club were unable to sign a replacement.
Bendtner looked certain to leave Arsenal this summer after returning from an unsuccessful season-long loan at Juventus but despite interest from a number of clubs in Germany and Crystal Palace, the Denmark international remained in North London.
The 25-year-old admitted he was ‘disappointed’ not to be allowed a ‘fresh start’ but says he is now focussed on returning to fitness and playing for the Gunners.
“It’s no secret that Arsenal and myself had agreed that I could leave the club during the 2013 summer transfer window subject to an agreement between all parties,” the 25-year-old said in a statement released by his management company.
“An agreement had been reached with more than one club this week but as Arsenal were unable to secure the services of another striker, they reserved their right to not sanction any deal to be concluded…
“Naturally, I was very disappointed as I was looking forward to a new challenge, with a new club and a fresh start in English football.
“Many things have been said about my where my future lies after many years at Arsenal; the truth is I just want to play football which is when I’m happiest and Arsenal is a fantastic environment for any professional to apply their trade.
“I still feel very strongly about Arsenal Football Club and following positive talks with the Manager, I am looking forward to working hard to regain full fitness and doing my very best to help to the team and the Manager fulfil our objectives and ambitions this season.”
Despite failing to score during his stint in Turin, Bendtner, who scored his last goal for Arsenal in March 2011, said he had learnt from his loan spell with the Scudetto winners and during his season-long spell at Sunderland during 2011/12.
“I’ve learnt a lot from my loan experiences at Sunderland and Juventus and I want to assure all Arsenal fans that I will give everything I have to contribute to what I believe will be a successful season for the club.”
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