Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has said he believes the club is "good enough to compete for everything" next season.
he Belgium international said that although the Gunners have faced criticism and are currently embroiled in a transfer saga surrounding skipper and top scorer Robin van Persie, they will challenge for honours if key players stay fit.
Speaking during the club's pre-season tour of the Far East - which van Persie has not joined - Vermaelen, who signed a new Emirates contract last year, said he was proud to play for them.
"When I was young I watched Arsenal a lot, and you could see the way they played was really attractive," he said.
"I love the way we play, and it means I can play as well. It's not only about defending and heading and tackling. I enjoy defending, but I like to play as well.
"It's easy to give a long ball from the back, but it doesn't give you any choice. It's better to build up and show a bit of your technique as well. I like the vision of Arsenal."
Vermaelen said the club's "aims this season should be the same as ever" - to win things - and added: "I know people are criticising Arsenal, but our main target is to keep everybody fit. If we do that, I'm really confident our team is good enough to compete for everything."
He predicted that his compatriot Eden Hazard, who joined Chelsea earlier this summer, would be a success in the Premier League and compared his style to that of Lionel Messi. "Eden is a really talented player," he said. "Technically, he is very good. He is quick with the ball. He's a little bit like the way Messi plays. He's small with a low centre of gravity and has some good tricks..
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has insisted goalkeeper Hugo Lloris will not be moving to Tottenham unless the player asks to leave.
As yet, though, Fulham have not received a concrete bid and, while the USA international is now into the final year of his contract, Jol wants to keep him at Craven Cottage.
The signs were there from the off. Egypt started in an unexpectedly positive fashion, pushing Brazil back and catching them unaware with Juan easily allowing Mohamed El-Nenny the first shot at goal. But after a rocky opening few minutes, Mano Menezes' side soon burst to life and showed the full extent of their attacking prowess with three goals before the break. Oscar appeared to be everywhere as he carved through the Egyptian defence with his coruscating dribbling and accurate passing, while Hulk's power and directness, as well as an impressive crossing game, gave Brazil a physical edge.
