Denilson ready to step up

Brazilian midfielder eyes Arsenal starting role

By James Dall   Last updated: 28th July 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Denilson ready to step up

Denilson: Eyeing starting role

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Arsenal midfielder Denilson has set his sights on securing a regular starting role in the new season.

The Brazilian, who joined The Gunners from Sao Paulo in 2006, made just four Premier League starts last term as a combination of injuries and Cesc Fabregas and Mathieu Flamini's fine partnership restricted his opportunities.

However, Flamini has since departed Emirates Stadium for AC Milan while experienced midfielder Gilberto has also headed for pastures new after securing his switch to Panathinaikos.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is expected to make a further addition to his squad this summer following the signings of Samir Nasri and Aaron Ramsey, but Denilson, 20, feels he is ready to compete for his club on a consistent basis.

He said in The Sun: "I have two main objectives this season: to be in Arsenal's starting XI and get my first cap for Brazil.

"I am fully fit and ready to go. We have a good team, with a lot of quality players.

"We have the skill, but need a bit more experience in the team.

"I believe in our team and I'm sure Arsenal will be the strongest one this year and win the title."