Quote:
New Arsenal forward Gervinho insists his introduction into the Premier League will help him raise his game and claims he has always idolised club legend Thierry Henry.
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The Ivory Coast international joined the Gunners from French champions Lille where he enjoyed a highly successful season last time around by helping his side to a domestic double, as well as scoring 18 goals.
Arsene Wenger’s latest acquisition continued this deadly form in front of goal in Arsenal’s friendly against Cologne last Saturday, netting twice in the first 15 minutes.
The 24-year-old believes his arrival at the Emirates will help him grow as a player, but warns he may need some time to acclimatise to the Premier League.
"I want to use my time here at Arsenal to develop my strengths," he told reporters.
"I know English football is harder and I might need a bit of time at the start, but ultimately it is down to me to raise my game and adapt.
"With the help of the team, I hope I can do that quickly. I will prepare well to be ready by the start.
"Regarding my position, I feel really comfortable in any position up front.
"The most important thing is that I bring a lot to the team wherever I am playing. My idol has always been Thierry Henry."
Gervinho’s new manager has already praised the Ivorian, believing he can add a new dimension for the Gunners with his silky movement and link-up play and the player himself is happy to be working with such a figure.
"When you are young, you always want to improve, to work with great managers - and Arsene Wenger is one of the best in the world," he added.
"I think that with him, I will become a much better player, and he was very important in my choice to sign here.
"I came here because I believe that he can improve my game and help me reach another level, but the most important thing for me is that I bring a lot to the team for whom I am playing."
Gervinho says he has always been fond of England’s top league and also recognises Arsenal’s struggle to become a competitive outfit and once more challenge for top honors, but insists the Gunners will bounce back in the new season.
"I have always followed Arsenal in the Premier League," he said. "At some points they were really good, but also had some difficulties like a lot of big clubs do.
"They did not finish in the position they wanted, and sometimes seasons like that happen - but we all know the potential of this team and hopefully we will do better next season.
"I can expect a great season from Arsenal, with a lot of success and a lot of emotion at the end.
"I expect us to achieve our goals, and also in the seasons beyond.
"I hope the fans will enjoy watching me play and that at the end of the season we will have the opportunity to celebrate something great together."
Nah. Did what was expected of him. 10-15 goals in his first season in a different country is good going.