Wednesday 3 September 2014 17:58, UK
Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky is determined to take his chance when he gets it after being only a bit-part player so far this season.
The Czech Republic international has made just two substitute appearances – a 70th minute replacement in the 3-0 Community Shield win over Manchester City before an 89th-minute cameo in the goalless Champions League stalemate at Besiktas.
All I can do now is to train properly and show that I'm prepared. And when the chance comes, to take it.
The 33-year-old featured 39 times for Arsenal last term and is disappointed at being under-used this season. However, he recognises it is early days and he is refusing to panic and head for the exit door just yet.
In comments reported by CTK, Rosicky is quoted as saying: "It's too early for that. The season is yet to get going, the Champions League will begin and it will be a roller-coaster of fixtures.
“We will see what the situation looks like in the coming weeks and months, how it develops. I'm naturally disappointed not to have been given a chance but not panicking yet.
“All I can do now is to train properly and show that I'm prepared. And when the chance comes, to take it."
But he admits it has been difficult watching the team pick up five points from their opening three Premier League games after being a regular last term.
"The lack of match practice has been absolutely terrible and, naturally, it makes me very sorry that I haven't been given a chance yet.
“It is difficult mainly because you know that the potential of the team is elsewhere and we haven't done well so far. I think I could have helped but, unfortunately, I can't put myself on the pitch.”
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has been calming Rosicky or, as the player himself says, smiling: "He has tried to.
"He doesn't want me to leave Arsenal. Of course, this is not an easy situation for me."
