As featured on NewsNow: Football news

Arsenal striker Nketiah hits out at critics: I have new deal for a reason

Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah has hit out at his critics.

Nketiah penned a new five-year deal last week and also took Thierry Henry's No14 shirt.

"When you get a run of eight games in the first team, you get that database and platform to show everything you can do," Nketiah told The Telegraph.

"I have worked a lot with the manager on playing with my back to goal, on the spaces to drop into and link play.

"Of course it has been developed, but at the same time you don't get here by just standing in the penalty box and scoring a goal.

"People are always going to say things, but I know what I can do. The people that have played with me, played against me, the coaches that have worked with me, I know how they feel about me.

"Every team needs a squad to compete. The club is always looking for ways to strengthen. They have extended my deal and they have done so for a reason."

Nketiah, on taking the No14 shirt, also said: "I joined the club at the age of 14, I wore 14 on loan at Leeds, and I even lived at No 14 at one point.

"When the opportunity came up to take it, it was hard to say no. I know what it means to the club and the fans. It's a nice feeling, an iconic number.

"We know it is a special shirt and Thierry has made it cool to wear this shirt, just like he did with long socks and gloves. It is what we have grown up with.

"I am just trying to be the best version of myself. I'm focused on creating my own memories in that shirt, leaving my own stamp on it."

Video of the day:

About the author

Paul Vegas

×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

  1. Go Ad-Free
  2. Faster site experience
  3. Support great writing
  4. Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free
×

Subscribe and go ad-free

For only $10 a year

Subscribe now
Launch Offer: 2 months free