Ali Wants Paddy to Stay

Story from goal.com....

Arsenal’s French striker Jeremie Aliadiere has urged club captain Patrick Vieira not to leave the FA Cup holders.
Aliadiere, who has joined Celtic on a one-year loan from Highbury, believes Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger would find it virtually impossible to replace the influential midfielder.

Chairman Peter Hill-Wood has confirmed that Juventus have made an official approach for their 29-year-old skipper, but Aliadiere believes Vieira can fulfil his ambition of dominating European club football with the Gunners.

"It could be the worst thing that happens to Arsenal,” said Aliadiere. "Nobody can give Arsenal what Patrick gives - I hope he will stay.

"It will be a huge loss for the club - he’s the captain and the team will be very down if he leaves. I’m really hoping he stays.

"I think he’s still the best midfielder and he has lost nothing.

"He’s still the best in the world for me. I couldn’t tell you how much he is worth.

"Juventus have done a lot in European football in the last 30 years. They’ve won the Champions League, many things, but I think Arsenal are growing and are a big, big club. Every year their ambition is to win the European Cup.

"The new stadium is going to be ready soon and hopefully Patrick will be there for it.

"Everybody respects him. All the squad and the entire club really need him. Of course Arsenal can win the Premiership next year."

Aliadiere, who is 22 and has taken the opportunity of a move to Celtic to get more first team football experience, faces stiff competition with the lChris Sutton and another former Gunner, John Hartson, at Parkhead.

But after an injury-plagued season at Highbury last term, Aliadiere knows it is time to deliver during his temporary spell in Scotland.

He said: "The strikers at Celtic are very good and they’re very experienced.

"They’ve had a big experience here, in Europe and with their national teams, so they’re excellent players. It will be top to play alongside them.

"I just hope to start every game - score in every game and do my best for the team.

"I don’t know how I can compare the players here - I’ve never seen a Scottish game.

"All I can do is my best in training and try to win my place."