Arsenal confirm Abou Diaby departure

Arsenal have confirmed that they have released midfielder Abou Diaby after nine years with the club.

The Frenchman joined the Gunners from Auxerre in 2006, but a succession of serious injuries curtailed his career in North London.

Academy players Jack Jebb, Austin Lipman, Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill and Josh Vickers are also leaving the Emirates Stadium, following the expiry of their contracts.

"Arsenal would like to take this opportunity to thank Abou, Jack, Austin, Brandon and Josh for their contribution to the club and to wish them well for the future," a statement on the club's official website read.

Diaby made 182 appearances for Arsenal.