Arsene Wenger: 'Japan spell helped me'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has claimed that coaching in Japan had a profound effect on his career.

The Frenchman took charge of Nagoya Grampus Eight for 18 months before joining the Gunners in 1996.

Wenger will return to his former employers this summer for a friendly during Arsenal's pre-season preparations.

"It was a welcome change in my life, a fantastic experience," he told the club's official website.

"It's something that changed me profoundly as well. The vision I have of life changed in Japan. It was absolutely a deep, profound and very, very positive experience. I'm very grateful that I went."

Wenger has won three Premier League titles and the FA Cup four times during his 17 years at Arsenal.