Podolski and Giroud upstaged Van Persie as Arsenal thrash Cologne 4-0

Robin van Persie was left in the shadows by new Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski as the Dutchman had his first run-out for the club since he released a controversial statement revealed he planned to leave.

The Gunners were playing in their final pre-season match before the Premier League kicks off on Saturday, and ran out 4-0 winners with two goals from their £11million German striker, and one each from Thomas Vermaelen and Gervinho.

Van Persie was left on the bench until the last 20 minutes, with the majority of the Gunners squad being given vital playing time ahead of him. He took the captain's armband from Vermaelen after replacing Podolski and was booed by some Arsenal fans.


Other new signings Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla all featured from the start, while Abou Diaby continued his first for fitness with a much-needed appearance.

Manchester United have yet to match Arsenal’s £25million valuation and the Gunners are digging in their heels over the deal with just a week to go before the season kicks off.

Wenger said: “There’s no news on Van Persie. Our fans want him to stay so you can understand they are excited.

“Anything I could say about Van Persie would be a lie because he’s our player and that’s it.

“Robin scored 30 goals last season and you want to keep your best player.

“He was player of the year in England. We want to keep him. I cannot tell you more at the moment because I don’t know more.”