Former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires has ruled out a possible return to the club, insisting that he is only training with the Gunners to maintain his fitness.

Following the club's capture of former striker Thierry Henry, there had been suggestions that Pires could be tempted with a similar return, having been seen training at the club recently.

Gunners midfielder Jack Wilshere added fuel to the speculation by writing on his Twitter account: "Super, super Robert Pires is training today ... return of another king?!? How amazing would that be!"

Pires, however, moved quickly to dispel the rumours and responded on the social networking site: "And of course I am training just to maintain my fitness level! But thanks I appreciate you all want me back at Arsenal!"

Pires has been searching for a new club since his departure from Aston Villa in the summer.

Written by
Matt Law