Fabregas misses Germany trip

Arsenal jetted off to Germany ahead of Saturday's friendly against Cologne and a training camp with the future of captain Cesc Fabregas still very much up in the air.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger confirmed his skipper was not part of the travelling squad, officially at least to remain behind to work on match fitness following a hamstring problem which also prevented him from heading out on the Asia tour earlier this month.

Striker Nicklas Bendtner and goalkeeper Manuel Almunia were also absent amid reports of impending moves. However, new signing Gervinho did make the trip. Wenger told the club's official website, www.arsenal.com: "The position at the moment (with Fabregas) is a 'no comment' situation because there is no movement at all."

Wenger has always spoken publicly of his desire to keep his captain, and also contract rebel Samir Nasri, who has yet to pen a new deal, sparking more speculation he could also leave in a £20million move to title rivals Manchester City.

"(It is) not completely (sorted that Samir will stay), but I want him to stay. He knows that. Hopefully we can sort that out in the coming weeks," Wenger added.

"Almunia has been contacted by a few clubs, Bendtner as well. As long as the situation is not settled, we have to focus on the coming season with the players we have.

"The players who are uncertain, it is difficult for them to focus on being completely committed."

After facing Cologne at the Rhein Energie Stadion, Arsenal will remain in Germany as they continue preparations for the Emirates Cup on July 30 and 31.

Whether or not the current Gunners skipper will lead the team out against Boca Juniors remains to be seen.