Adams: Vermaelen not good enough for Gunners
442 Staff - Wednesday 03 June 2009, 15:39
Legendary Arsenal defender Tony Adams has warned manager Arsene Wenger not to splash out on rumoured target Thomas Vermaelen this summer.
The 23-year-old has made more than 80 league appearances for the Dutch giants since joining in 2003 - scoring against Aston Villa in last season's UEFA Cup - and has established himself as one of the most highly-rated stoppers in the Eredivisie.
And his form has led to speculation linking his name with a possible move to the Emirates Stadium during the close season, with the Gunners' faithful keen on Wenger to sign several experienced heads to compliment their vast array of talented youngsters.
However, Adams - who spent several years coaching in Holland - does not believe the Belgian stopper is ready for the rough and tumble of the Premier League yet.
"I think Thomas is a very good player but I don’t think he’s ready for the Arsenal," said Adams, who made more than 500 league appearances for the Gunners, winning four league titles.
"I don’t think the punters at Arsenal would like another small one.
"I don’t know whether he’ll end up going for a bigger player. We’ll see how much money we’ve got first.
"I have been looking at the Dutch league, but to be honest with you it’s been decimated.
"It’s a poor league at the moment, there’s one or two players but they’re leaving too early."
NEWS: Vermaelen quiet on Arsenal interest
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