Wenger cool over Hleb exit

8:27am Thursday 17th July 2008

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger described himself as "comfortable" with the decision to sell Alexander Hleb to Barcelona.

The Belarus midfielder joined Mathieu Flamini in leaving the Emirates Stadium after the end of last season, and although Wenger had initially been keen to retain his services he was content with the terms of a deal worth an initial £11.8million, rising to a possible £13.5million.

"We must firstly thank Alex for his contribution towards Arsenal during his time with us. He played a significant role in the three seasons he was with the club," said the Frenchman. "We are comfortable with our decision to let him go and we are all looking forward to continuing our preparations for the new season ahead."

He continued: "Everyone at Arsenal wishes Alex the best of luck for the future."

Hleb, 27, meanwhile, has set his sights on helping Barcelona return to their trophy-winning ways after completing his "dream" move to the Catalan giants.

"I want to give my best for this club. I have realised a dream. My aim is to win many trophies," he said.

Hleb also hopes his versatility will be an asset to new Barca coach Pep Guardiola, insisting he is willing to play anywhere on the pitch.

"I am available to the coach to play in any position, including goalkeeper," he joked during his presentation on Wednesday.