Diarra's Arsenal dilemma

New boy issues warning over future

Last updated: 22nd October 2007

Diarra's Arsenal dilemma

Diarra: Unsettled

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Arsenal midfielder Lassana Diarra has admitted he may be forced to seek a move away from the club if he does not get more regular first-team action.

Diarra, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea on transfer deadline day, has struggled to establish himself in Arsene Wenger's plans since arriving at Emirates Stadium.

The French international has yet to begin a Premier League game for Arsenal with his only start coming against Newcastle in the Carling Cup.

Diarra left Chelsea because his lack of first-team opportunities under Jose Mourinho and he insists he will not stand for the same at Arsenal.

Warning

"For the moment, everything is going fine and I'm learning, but I cannot stay like this for ever," Diarra told The Times.

"I'm not going to wait for a year because I changed clubs in order to play.

"I'm not stupid. If I come to Arsenal and my situation is the same as at Chelsea, then I should have stayed at Chelsea. If I come to Arsenal, it's to play. In a few months, I'll have to decide what I want to do."

Diarra added: "I've played more games for my country than for my club, which is ridiculous.

"When I came to Chelsea, I was 19, so to wait for a year is OK, but when I'm playing for the French national team with the European Championship coming, I need to play regular football.

"I cannot stay like this, going to training but staying at home at weekends and sometimes playing in the Carling Cup. I cannot accept this now.

"When Wenger signed me, he knew the player I am. I've been in this kind of situation before, so it's not new to me. I've waited for a long time, but I'm 22 and cannot wait as I have in the past.

"I know Arsenal are a very good team, playing good football and top of the league, but I want to play.

"If I'm not playing by Christmas I may have to go somewhere else."