Arsenal's new signing Ryo Miyaichi is unconcerned by comparisons to
Cristiano
Ronaldo and
is confident he will make an impact at the
club.
Manager Arsene Wenger decided to sign the gifted Japanese youngster
last month after an impressive trial period over the summer.
18-year-old Miyaichi has represented his country at youth level and
is a highly-regarded prospect. The winger, who is lightning quick,
has already prompted comparisons to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry
and Real Madrid star Ronaldo.
Miyaichi however, has shrugged off such praise, insisting he is
still a raw player.
"I don't feel pressured (by the comparisons) but I know in myself
that I have nowhere near the talent of such great players as
Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry," he told Kyodo News.
"I just have to do my best to one day come close to being the kind
of players they are."
The Gunners’ previous Japanese import, Junichi Inamoto, failed to
make a single league appearance in the team but Miyaichi has vowed
to succeed where his compatriot failed.
He added: "I'm confident I have the ability to penetrate defenses
over there and hopefully I'll be given the marks that I am looking
for.
"I just have to go there and give it
a shot, compete and hopefully one day I will be standing on the
pitch at Emirates Stadium."
Miyaichi already has the backing of Wenger, after the Frenchman
revealed his delight at his acquisition.
Wenger said: "I look forward to helping him fulfill his potential
here at Arsenal."