Bendtner determined to succeed at Arsenal

Bendtner has signed a new long term contract (GETTY IMAGES)

Nicklas Bendtner is determined to go on to bigger and better things with Arsenal after committing his long-term future to the Gunners.

The 21-year-old striker, along with young Brazilian midfielder Denilson, has agreed a new deal at the Emirates Stadium club.

Manager Arsene Wenger has long championed the potential of his young side, and yesterday's announcement follows agreements to secure the continued services of Theo Walcott, Robin van Persie as well as fellow youngsters Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs.

The Gunners may have added only Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen to the squad over the summer, while selling Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor to Manchester City, but still impressed during the opening games of the new campaign - the only loss a narrow 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.

Following the departure of Adebayor, Bendtner has looked to cement himself in Wenger's attacking plans.

Bendtner chalked up some 50 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring 15 goals.

The 6ft 3in frontman is determined to continue his progression.

"It means a lot that I can commit my future to Arsenal because I have a great affection for this club," he said.

"I've been here for five years now, and my development both on and off the pitch as a player and person is thanks to Arsene Wenger and the team here.

"We've got a group of players that is capable of achieving great success, and I am really excited to be a part of it."

Wenger is confident Bendtner can play a big part in Arsenal's future.

"Nicklas has impressed me highly with his application and determination over the last season, you can see that he wants to compete at the highest level and win things with his team-mates," Wenger said.

"He scored a number of important goals for us last season and he will look to replicate that again this year.

"However, it's not just about the goals, his all round contribution has improved and will continue to do so.

"I am very pleased that he will be part of the team for years to come."

Denilson, meanwhile, has emerged as a regular defensive partner for Arsenal captain and playmaker Cesc Fabregas.

The Brazilian, who arrived at Emirates Stadium from Sao Paulo in August 2006, scored a superb strike during the Gunners' opening day 6-1 romp at Everton.

Denilson - who had more starts than any other player last season, 49 in total - believes this young Arsenal squad has a bright future.

"We have a hugely talented group of players here, and I am convinced that with everyone working together we'll be able to achieve great things," he said.

"It is a special time to be part of this club and I'm delighted to have signed a new long-term deal."

The controversy, meanwhile, continues over UEFA's decision to ban Arsenal striker Eduardo for diving in the Champions League qualifier against Celtic - which Scotland keeper Craig Gordon yesterday claimed was "worth it".

Arsenal are to analyse the reasoning behind UEFA's judgement before deciding on their next course of action.

Wenger lambasted the whole saga as a "witch-hunt" against the Croatia international, set to face England at Wembley in next week's crucial World Cup qualifier.

The Gunners manager is set to attend a meeting of Europe's top coaches in Nyon this week, and can be expected to raise the issue and impacts of 'simulation'.