Emmanuel Frimpong admits he thought his chance with Arsenal had gone after receiving a serious knee injury in preseason last year.
The Ghana midfielder is now making his way after a full recovery.
But Frimpong explained to the People: "Last year things could have been different.
"I was doing well but then I got injured and Jack went on to do even better.
"It was a really difficult time for me. Of course I was happy for Jack - but also I felt I could have had the same impact.
"He was good to me and would come round my house to help me through the tough times but all the time I just wanted to be having the chance he had in the first team.
"When I first got that injury it was a real mental battle for me. It takes time to get used to and all I kept thinking was 'has my opportunity gone?'
"I'd worked hard and got my chance, but then the injury came and I couldn't push on. I wondered if it would ever happen for me again and I am thankful the boss has shown he has faith in me to come back."
