Gilberto admits frustration

Gilberto: Sidelined of late

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Arsenal midfielder Gilberto has conceded it has been difficult playing second fiddle to Mathieu Flamini this season.

And the Brazilian is to weigh up his future in the summer before deciding whether a move away from Emirates Stadium is his only option.

Prior to this season and Gilberto had always been a first choice for Arsene Wenger but Flamini's emergence as a holding midfielder of genuine stature has seen him reduced to the periphery in North London.

Gilberto is not short of admirers and has in the past been heavily linked with a move to Italy, with Juventus mooted as long-term suitors.

He is not, though, willing to be drawn into a debate as to where his future lies, until the summer at the earliest.

"Of course it has been hard for me, everybody knows that and it is no surprise given the position I am in," he told Sky Sports News.

"But I try to manage the situation; I am calm and am professional as I have always been.

"But we will see at the end of the season."

Copa America

Gilberto missed the start of the season due to Brazil's involvement in the Copa America and ever since, has struggled to dislodge Flamini from Wenger's first XI.

The South American is loath though to blame international commitments for his current club malaise and insists he will always be proud to represent his country.

"I never regret to play for my country, it is inside of me, and this is my pride.

"I don't regret the Copa America."