Arsenal's record signing Andrey Arshavin claims his health suffered towards the end of a frustrating spell at The Emirates. The Russia international has returned to Zenit St Petersburg after seeing his contract with the Gunners come to an end.

Arshavin told Sport Express: "The fact is I didn't want to stay in England, this was clear since January.

"I don't regret anything, but I had to leave.

"It was a punishment sat on the bench. To train even though you know you won't play - it is psychologically difficult.

"I nearly suffered depression, but I didn't because I'm mentally strong. The monotony of life there was crushing me."