The Gunners captain has seen Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker paired in defence ahead of him in recent weeks but is unperturbed and confident of regaining his spot

Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen insists that he will “give everything” to win back his place in the Gunners’ first team.

The Belgian has not featured for Arsene Wenger’s side since the north London derby defeat to Tottenham on March 3, with Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker paired together before the international break.

“It’s just something that happens in football, especially when you play for a big club,” Vermaelen told Arsenal’s official matchday programme.

“I always want to play, of course, but the boss has big decisions to make and puts the team on the pitch that he thinks will win the game. It worked on both of those occasions, and each time I was delighted that we won.

“I’m fighting to win my place back, and nothing will change my mentality or the way I work – I will give everything every day, as I have throughout my career.

“When I was with the national team recently people were asking me questions but there’s no drama.

“I’ve played many games in my career, and spending two on the bench does not mean the world is on fire! You can’t be surprised by these things; the only thing to do is keep going and make sure you come back strongly.”