Tuesday 14 August 2007 23:22, UK
William Gallas has told Arsene Wenger he is happy to become a leader among the Arsenal ranks.
The former Chelsea defender has been asked to fill the leadership void created by Thierry Henry's summer switch to Barcelona.
Gallas expects a reaction to Henry's exit in the first few weeks of the season, but will be there to guide Wenger's young guns.
"I know I am being called on to be one of the leaders of the team after the exit of Henry and I am prepared for that," he told the Sunday Mirror.
"I am one of the more experienced players in the squad and I am here to help the younger players in all aspects - and that is what I have told Arsene Wenger face-to-face.
"The departure of Henry cannot be dismissed and it will show in the first few games of the season. But that will pass."
"I am not crazy when I say we can win something," he added. "We have to be optimistic and have the mentality of champions.
"I am a born winner and always ask a lot of myself. My only desire is to succeed and I want Arsenal to be fighting for titles."