Arsenal duo make Germany switch

Arsenal defender Johan Djourou has joined Bundesliga club Hamburg on a season-long loan.

The Swiss international made just two first-team appearances for Arsene Wenger’s side last term, and spent the second half of the season on loan at Hannover.

The 26-year-old said his desire to play regularly was the deciding factor behind the switch.

“Hamburg is a big club with great history, lots of quality and amazing fans. I am convinced that this move is the right one to further my career,” he told Hamburg’s official website.

“I could have earned a lot more money in London but that was not the main thing. I want to play as often as possible and I think I can do that in Hamburg.”

Meanwhile, the Gunners have also agreed to loan midfielder Francis Coquelin to German club Freiburg for the season.

Coquelin signed a long-term deal with Arsenal in January 2012 and the 22-year-old will now have a year to hone his skills in the Bundesliga.