Arteta made 'Arsenal medical chief make late-gasp U-turn' & snub Liverpool move

Mikel Arteta persuaded head of medical services Gary O'Driscoll to make a last minute U-turn on his protracted move to Liverpool during heart-to-heart talks in Dubai.

As revealed by Sportsmail earlier this year, O'Driscoll was offered the top medical job at Liverpool after their head doctor Andrew Massey took up a role with FIFA.

O'Driscoll, who has held roles with the British Lions and Ireland rugby teams, had initially told Arsenal of his intention to move to Anfield, so much so that the Gunners advertised for his replacement.

But during the club's recent winter break trip to Dubai, manager Arteta managed to persuade his trusted aide to snub Liverpool.

O'Driscoll an Arteta grew close during the Spaniard's time at the Emirates as a player and their relationship was key in the doctor's change of heart.

It is understood O'Driscoll will be given a firmer grip on the club's medical department moving forward, which could result in significant changes ahead of next season.