Godfrey Oboabona denies criticising Arsene Wenger

Nigeria defender Godfrey Oboabona has denied criticising Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and insists that he has never been offered a trial by the Gunners.

Oboabona was widely reported to have turned down the offer of a short trial in North London last week, claiming that the enquiry showed the Super Eagles international a lack of respect.

The 22-year-old told BBC Sport: "I never said anything about a highly respected manager like Mr Wenger showing me a lack of respect.

"I have had so many text messages and phone calls about it, the rumour that I was invited on trial was not true, I only read about it like everyone else. I've always said I will take my tie, focus on my development as a player and continue to give my best in every game.

"At the appropriate time, when clubs must have seen me well enough, they will hopefully approach Sunshine Stars in Nigeria. My desire is to grow every day, sadly all the things written about Arsenal did not come from me."

Oboabona has played 25 times for his country and took part in this summer's Confederations Cup in Brazil.