Arsenal news: Arsene Wenger misses Kieran Gibbs MORE than Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

ARSENE WENGER has admitted he was hurt more by Kieran Gibbs’ departure than Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s.

16:00, Sun, Sep 24, 2017 | UPDATED: 16:00, Sun, Sep 24, 2017

Arsene Wenger, Kieran Gibbs GETTY

Arsene Wenger has admitted he misses Kieran Gibbs after his move to West Brom

Arsenal cleared out the deadwood in their squad over the summer, with nine players leaving the club on permanent and temporary deals.

The most high-profile move was Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s switch to Liverpool for around £40million.

However, Arsene Wenger has admitted it was not his departure to Anfield that hit him hardest over the summer.

And speaking ahead of Monday night’s clash with West Brom, the Frenchman admitted seeing Kieran Gibbs lining up for the Baggies is the toughest to take.

“Overall it's true that with Gibbs [it hurt] more than Chamberlain because he had been educated at Arsenal from the age of 10,” he told Sky Sports.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain GETTY

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain left Liverpool for a move to Liverpool

Kieran Gibbs - Underrated

"When he arrived he was a left-winger. I transformed him into a full-back because he was not necessarily rated as a guy who would make it as a left winger.

“But I saw something in him that was very intelligent, with pace, that made me feel he could make it as a left-back.

“They [Academy players] carry the values that you think are important, which are based on mental qualities, humility, respect and commitment.

“And as well football qualities which means you always try to play in a positive way. Plus real team play and focusing on a collective way.

When asked if letting Gibbs leave felt like losing a family member, Wenger added: "Of course.

“And I believe that for them it must be difficult to make that step as well.

"He did not ask to leave, it was a mutual decision. He wanted to play - he's 27, or 28. You want to play at that age.

"It was a difficult decision but on the other hand when a guy has given you so many years you have to accept that if he is not sure to play.”