Mertesacker and Rosický renew terms at Arsenal

Per Mertesacker and Tomáš Rosický – "players of exceptional quality and experience" according to Arsène Wenger – have committed their futures to Arsenal FC.

Mertesacker and Rosický have both signed new contracts with the north London club, who are third in the Premier League and through to the FA Cup quarter-finals, where they face Everton FC this weekend. Mertesacker, 29, is in his third season with Arsenal since joining from SV Werder Bremen in summer 2011. The Germany centre-back has captained the Gunners in the absence of Thomas Vermaelen and Mikel Arteta.

Rosický, meanwhile, is in his eighth campaign with Arsenal, having moved to England from Borussia Dortmund in 2006. The 33-year-old has made more than 200 appearances in all competitions. "They have consistently proven themselves at the highest level," said Wenger of the duo. "There is a great feeling of togetherness and belief in the group, and this news will only help to strengthen this further."

Mertesacker said: "On my first visit to England as a boy I bought an Arsenal jersey and was so proud wearing it when playing football with my friends. Many years later, I have become a real Gunner. I am deeply proud to have extended my contract with Arsenal. I'm proud to be a Gunner." Rosický added: "Ever since I arrived at Arsenal, I have always felt I'm at the right place where I want to be. I want to win the league with Arsenal. It's my big goal and I will do everything I can to achieve it."

Arsenal trail holders FC Bayern München 2-0 in their UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie, with the second leg taking place in Germany next Tuesday.