Wenger: Diarra disappointment

Lassana Diarra's exit from Arsenal was a big mistake, according to Arsene Wenger who feels the Frenchman made a rushed decision into making the move to the South Coast with Portsmouth.

The 22-year-old France international only joined the Gunners in the summer, but opted to link up with Pompey after struggling to secure a starting spot, a situation he had previously faced at Chelsea.

Wenger commented: "I regret that he has gone and I wish him well.

"He was impatient, especially because he had known a situation like that before at Chelsea and I decided to open the door because I have players in that position.

"When he had exactly the same problem again, he panicked a little bit.

"I believe he has enough quality to play at the top level, that means for a big club." Diarra made 13 appearances for Arsenal before completing a £5million switch to the South Coast.