Wenger insists Arsenal have a physical presence

Arsène Wenger believes that, with more players coming back from injury, Arsenal should not be considered such a small side anymore.

The manager pointed to the contribution of Abou Diaby, who he feels has really added height and strength to the midfield this season.

With Nicklas Bendtner also recently returning from injury, Wenger believes his side can now pose a threat when it comes to set-pieces.

He said: "He offers height and a physical presence. It gives us the pair with Alex Song and even when Denilson plays, when Diaby is there we look strong in the challenges and strong in the air as well.

"When you add Nicklas Bendtner and him, suddenly when you set-up on set pieces, who do we have? We have four or five who really can jump for the headers and it makes a difference."

The Frenchman went on to say that Diaby's performances this season have been a real boost for the team.

He continued: "Diaby for me is the player who is going step-by-step higher and standing really as a strong player."

"He missed a complete year with his ankle injury [in 2006/07] and since he came back last year he was out a lot but this year in central midfield he has really stepped up and improved tremendously. He has become a very strong player."

Diaby stood out particularly in Arsenal's recent 1-0 win over Liverpool, with a well-taken match-winning goal, taking him to his seventh strike for the Gunners this season.

"He gives us goals as well - a fantastic contribution. It is great and he scores important goals as well."

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