French full-back Armand Traore has told skysports.com he sees his future at Arsenal.
Wing-back keen to establish himself at Emirates Stadium
Armand Traore has told
skysports.com he sees his future at Arsenal but admits the first six months of his return will play a key role in determining his long-term plans.
The 19-year-old Frenchman is currently on a season-long loan at Portsmouth, and has recorded 17 Premier League appearances on the South Coast to date.
Traore's natural role is as an attacking left-back, but Gael Clichy, 23, has been Gunners boss Arsene Wenger's first choice in that position since the departure of Ashley Cole in 2006.
However, Traore, who joined Arsenal from Monaco three years ago, remains determined to establish himself at Emirates Stadium.
Patience
Speaking at the
Launch of FIFA 09's Ultimate team, he told
skysports.com: "I am quite confident I am going to go back to Arsenal.
"I am very determined to play first-team football for them. I am going to work hard every day and be really patient. I am going to try and get into the team.
"I have not spoken to Arsene Wenger recently. I will talk to him when I go back.
"I will have to see for the first six months. For the first six months I am just going to go back and work hard. I really want to play for Arsenal. Time will tell."
Stronger
Traore is also confident his loan period at Fratton Park will ensure he returns to North London a better player.
He added: "Definitely, my loan spell has been beneficial. Especially when (former Portsmouth managers) Harry (Redknapp) and Tony (Adams) were here.
"I have learnt how to cope with the pressure and about the Premier League."
Armand Traore was speaking at the launch of FIFA 09 Ultimate Team - a new strategic online game mode available on Xbox Live and PSN. For more info go to www.fifa09.ea.com/uk
