Arsenal star Andrey Arshavin
admits playing in the Premier
League has been more difficult than he imagined.
The Russian international has now become a firm fans' favourite
with a return of 12 goals in 27 league games, but he admits things
in England have been tougher than expected.
"I expected before I moved to England, if you are a good player
if you play for a big team it is easier," Arshavin told Sky
Sports News.
"But even if you play against Burnley or Wolverhampton, it is not easy - you
don't have time to turn or do any dribbling, if you get two touches
you're lucky."
Arshavin is hopeful Arsenal
will mount a serious title challenge in the New Year but admits
they cannot afford to drop many more points.
"We have had some chances to be very close to the top but we
have not taken them so I am a little disappointed," he said.
"But now if we win games in hand we are still in the race but at
the same time we cannot lose more points."
Arshavin is full of praise for Arsenal boss Arsene
Wenger.
"He gave me freedom, he requires of me to play as I see on the
pitch," he said.
He also paid tribute to the Gunners faithful, adding: "I am
happy, I sometimes think they like me more than my wife."
