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Lucas Perez would welcome Deportivo return after lack of Arsenal opportunities

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 28:  Lucas Perez of Arsenal looks on during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Southampton and Arsenal at St Mar
Image: Lucas Perez has spoken of his frustration at Arsenal this season

Lucas Perez has admitted he would be open to a return to Deportivo La Coruna this summer, having started just three games for Arsenal this season in the Premier League and Champions League. 

The 28-year-old arrived in the summer in a move worth in the region of £17m, having notched 17 goals in La Liga last season.

Perez has started just two games in the Premier League under Arsene Wenger however, featuring in 11 in total, and the striker revealed his frustration on Sunday.

"This season has been difficult because I think I've deserved to play more," Perez told Spanish newspaper La Voz de Galicia.

Arsene Wenger walks away dejected after the 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park
Image: Perez has barely featured under under-fire Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, despite arriving for £17m

"I may not have done as well as others, but if they'd have given me more minutes I'd have produced better numbers: more goals and more assists.

"I've spoken to the coach and he admits as much, but he has own ideas and I respect that. I'd like more opportunities because I think I deserve them, but I'll have to accept what comes my way."

In the Champions League this season, Perez started just one game for Arsenal, with six of his nine starts in all competitions coming in the League and FA Cups.

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Lucas Perez is congratulated by team-mates after scoring Arsenal's opener against Sutton
Image: The majority of Perez's starts this season have come in the cup competitions

The La Coruna-born man still managed to notch seven goals during the campaign despite his meagre minutes, but admits he would happily return to the Estadio Riazor should the opportunity arise.

"I would like to prove that I've got the quality to win things with Arsenal," Perez added.

"But if the moment comes when I can't do that any more, or if they decide to transfer me, there is always the opportunity to go back to Depor.

"I know there are other clubs who want to sign me and my intention is to play in the Champions League. But in the summer we will see if Depor is still an option.

Arsenal's Lucas Perez scores his side's second goal of the game
Image: Despite his meagre minutes, Perez still managed seven goals, including a spectacular volley at Bournemouth

"People talk about you without knowing you, and that hurts sometimes. I've only kissed the badge at one club and that was Depor's. I never lied or did anything behind their back.

"They could have sold me to other clubs where I would have earned more, but for a smaller transfer fee, and I didn't accept the moves because it was my home.

"I came [to Arsenal] to try and progress. I think anyone would do what I have done."

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