McAllister welcomes imminent arrival of experienced midfield ace Pires
Gary McAllister on Robert Pires.
By Paul Brown
Assistant manager Gary McAllister has welcomed the imminent arrival of Robert Pires.
Boss Gerard Houllier has been in talks today with representatives of midfield maestro Pires, who will be joining the club later this week.
The move suits both parties - the exciting central star is a free agent after being released by Spanish club Villarreal in the summer while Villa have injuries in midfield.
The 37-year-old won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the 2002 Footballer of the Year prize during his six year stay with the Gunners.
He was also voted sixth greatest player of all-time by Arsenal fans in an online poll as well as emerging victorious in World Cup 1998 and the European Championships of 2000.
McAllister is relishing working with the experienced star, who he believes will be an example to our younger players.
He said: "Robert has been training at Arsenal.
"I know the boss and Arsene Wenger are very friendly and I believe he's going to join us in the next two or three days.
"It's perfect. I am sure he will arrive at the training ground in good condition.
"He's a player everyone can look up to because of what he has achieved."
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