Former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger praises Mohamed Elneny after midfielder loaned to Besiktas

Arsene Wenger believes Besiktas have signed themselves an excellent player in Mohamed Elneny.

The Egyptian midfielder joined the Turkish club last month after he was deemed surplus to requirements under Unai Emery at the Emirates.

Emery started Elneny in just five Premier League games and his lack of playing time, coupled with the loan arrival of midfielder Dani Ceballos, led to the 27-year-old being shipped out on a season-long loan.

Wenger, who left Arsenal after 22 years in charge last May, was the man who signed Elneny for Arsenal – and he believes the player will be prove his class in Turkey.

He told beIN Sports: “First and foremost, Elneny is a modern day midfielder.

“He will work hard for the team. He has a great technique. His physical attributes are also very important.

“His passes are also very direct and will help the team in attacking areas.”

Wenger recently teased an Arsenal return for himself.

The Frenchman revealed he has kept in contact with club chiefs since leaving the Emirates.

He said: “I have been in touch with some people at the club but I felt when you go like that you cannot be half in, half out.

“You let people who come in work their way. And I wanted to take a complete distance.

“It’s still a bit early, maybe, to go back. I haven’t been back at the club.”