The Gunners’ forward has admitted that he is looking to play a major role in the remaining matches as the north London club strive to make a final push for a top-four finish

Lukas Podolski has revealed that he expects to play a big part in Arsenal’s forthcoming fixtures, as the German looks to boost the club’s chances of a Champions League place.

The forward has been linked with a move away from the Emirates, but Podolski has expressed his happiness regarding his summer move to the Premier League.

He told the official Arsenal programme: “I did well earlier in the season, then had an injury which put me out for a few weeks, but now I’m back and hope to play a big part in the final run of matches. But it is the coach’s decision, of course.

“Overall I am happy. You must remember I came from a team [Cologne] that was going down, and it wasn’t so easy to come straight to a big club and be strong. But I believe I have the quality to play in every game here and think I have done well until now.

“I’ve scored some goals and made assists, so I am content. But I’ll be happiest if we can make the Champions League, because every player – and every team – wants to play at that level.”