Published: 26 August, 2014
By GEOFFREY SAWYER

ARSENE Wenger said today that Lukas Podolski would not be sold before the transfer window closes and has added the German forward to his squad for tomorrow's (Wednesday's) make-or-break Champions League play-off game with Besiktas.

Podolski, a fans' favourite due to his excitable efforts on social media in which he has repeatedly talked of his love for playing for the Gunners, is needed after Olivier Giroud hobbled off injured in the 2-2 away draw with Everton on Saturday. Giroud had just scored a last minute equaliser when he injured his foot moments later.

Wenger had reportedly being considering allowing Podolski to leave the club with Juventus and Galatassaray said to be ready to pounce. But today the Arsenal manager, speaking ahead of the second leg with Besiktas, said: "Podolski will stay with us."

Arsenal played out a goalless draw with the Turkish team last week but will be without suspended Aaron Ramsey, who has scored in both of Arsenal's opening Premier League matches, tomorrow.