Wenger defends 'fantastic' young stars

Arsene Wenger today defended the reputation of footballers, insisting that the vast majority of them are dedicated and well-behaved.

In the week in which Arsenal's Jermaine Pennant - on loan at Birmingham - has been jailed and Manchester United's Mads Timm and Callum Flanagan have been sent to a young offenders institution, Wenger urged people to see the issue in perspective.

Wenger, whose Arsenal team face Portsmouth at Highbury tomorrow, said: "When there is something involving a young footballer it is highlighted because of the sport's high profile.

"What is forgotten is that you have 98 per cent who behave very well and are dedicated to their job. It is not right to generalise from just one or two examples.

"Young players are always criticised but I will show the young players of Arsenal - and I will show you there is a fantastic spirit and a fantastic mentality. Every day they train well and they behave well. It is a credit to them. I don't feel there is a bigger problem with the young players than there is in society generally."

Two of the young crop who have made an impact in recent weeks are Swiss Under-21 international Philippe Senderos and 18-year-old Dutch striker Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, who is set to be offered a new contract in the summer. "Both are huge talents," said Wenger.