France international midfielder Abou Diaby has signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal, the Premier League club confirmed today.

The 23-year-old joined the Gunners from Auxerre in January 2006, and after recovering from a broken ankle at the end of that season, has since gone on to make 119 appearances.

Diaby has developed a good understanding with Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas in their new midfield formation this season, scoring six goals.

"This shows my long-term commitment to Arsenal and I am very happy here, which is why I am so pleased to extend my contract," said Diaby. "It's a great thing for me and hopefully there will be some good years ahead for me here."

Abou is a great player with huge presence on the football pitch and he has the potential to be an extremely influential part of Arsenal for many years to come.
Arsene Wenger on Abou Diaby

Manager Arsene Wenger added: "Abou is a great player with huge presence on the football pitch and he has the potential to be an extremely influential part of Arsenal for many years to come."

Arsenal later confirmed that midfielder Henri Lansbury has also agreed a new long-term deal. The 19-year-old has extended his loan spell with Championship side Watford until the end of the season.

Lansbury joined the Emirates club as a scholar in 2007, signing professional terms in summer 2008. The teenager made his debut in the 3-0 Carling Cup victory over Sheffield United in October 2007 and he has made four first-team appearances in all, all in the League Cup.

He went on loan to Scunthorpe last season, scoring five goals in 17 appearances during a three-month stay and was in the starting line-up for the Johnstone's Paint Trophy defeat by Luton at Wembley. Lansbury has made 20 appearances and scored twice since joining Watford on loan in the summer and he will now stay with Malky Mackay's side until the end of the season.