Former Chelsea defender Glen Johnson has expressed his surprise at Laurent Koscielny's decision to refuse to travel on Arsenal's pre-season tour of the United States of America.
The Gunners' captain has shocked the club by refusing to join Unai Emery's squad as they begin an American tour, where they will play four games, including clashes in Denver, Charlotte and Washington.
His decision comes amid speculation over his future, with the Frenchman heavily linked with a return to his home country this summer, while football.london understands he has told the club that he wants to be released from his contract and seal a move back to France before the summer transfer window closes.
However, the Gunners are not happy with their captain and have issued a statement over the situation.
"We are very disappointed by Laurent’s actions, which are against our clear instructions," the statement read.
"We hope to resolve this matter and will not be providing any further comment at this time."
Koscielny's decision has angered Arsenal fans , as well as the club, but Johnson says that the Frenchman's actions have shocked him, adding that he would not expect it from the 33-year-old, who has been with the Gunners since 2010.
“This definitely seems out of character," the former Chelsea and Liverpool defender told Talksport.
"Whenever I have met him or played against him, he has always been a gentleman, and he doesn’t seem to be the sort of guy who would throw his toys out of the pram like this.
"If a player doesn't turn up for pre-season, they have obviously got an objective, and a club interested. If it is 50-50, you are taking too much of a gamble, and he could end up back at Arsenal.
"But this is disrespectful to everyone. It could end nasty, he is a legend at the club, and people see him as a gentleman, but he doesn't seem to be acting like one at the moment."
