Arsene Wenger: 'Thomas Vermaelen will stay at Arsenal'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has insisted that it is normal for defender Thomas Vermaelen not to appear in every match.

Vermaelen has not started for the Gunners in their last four matches, but Wenger has moved to dismiss speculation that his absence could lead to the versatile defender leaving the Emirates Stadium in the summer.

The Frenchman told reporters: "He has a long-term contract. He is our captain and periods where you don't play can happen. That's part of our job, to be in competition or not."

The Belgian international could return to the starting lineup against Norwich City on Saturday with Per Mertesacker missing through suspension.