This will come as a relief to many Arsenal fans, since Adams has been able to play all too few matches of late (sometimes, like against France last autumn, his international appearances have cost Arsenal his presence), and when he has played his continuing importance has been obvious.

Adams made it clear that this was his own decision. There was no pressure from Arsene Wenger or anyone else at Arsenal. He said "I have taken the decision to listen to my body. Something has to give and it has to be the internationals."