Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker admits he's still adapting to life in London.

The German international, 27, said he struggled to adapt following his hurriedly-arranged move.

But Mertesacker has since helped Arsenal go on an impressive run of form, and become the first English side to reach the last 16 of the Champions League.

He said: "I want to prove that I can make it in London.

"My transfer went through very quickly, and it is a huge changeover to make in one's career.

"London is a huge city, but you just have to dive in and try to play a part rather than crawling away and hiding.

"Otherwise you won't stand a chance - you will sink like a stone. You simply have to try to speak English, drive on the left and get involved."