Diarra admits puzzlement

Midfielder's first-team opportunities for Arsenal have been slim

By Patrick Haond   Last updated: 16th November 2007   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Diarra admits puzzlement

Diarra: Confusing time

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Arsenal's Lassana Diarra admits he is puzzled by his current playing situation.

Diarra joined The Gunners in the summer from Chelsea; however he has struggled to tie down a regular place in the side.

Arsene Wenger boasts a competitive selection of midfielders, meaning that the 22-year-old has had to settle for only a handful of appearances.

The majority of which have come with him playing in his secondary position of right-back.

However, Diarra continues to be called upon by France manager Raymond Domenech.

Pleased to play

The Arsenal man says it is a confusing situation to be in, but is determined to keep working in training to earn himself a place in his favoured central midfield position.

"I am a midfielder. The French team coach recently used me on the right and I was pleased to play. But my position is in the midfield," he told L'Equipe.

"If Willy (Sagnol) was here I would not be in the starting XI.

"Each time I join the French team it is a big pleasure. But it is true that my situation for my club is puzzling.

Outstanding

"But it will be sorted out soon. To be called again by Les Bleus I have to play for my club.

"So that situation has to be settled quickly, I am not getting mad with that. I am patient.

"At Arsenal I don't feel in competition with Bacary Sagna, as I am a midfielder.

"The midfielders are outstanding, but I work fine in training sessions and I am waiting for an opportunity."

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