Arsenal defender Johan Djourou wants to break into the Gunners team this season. "I am ready now," Djourou informed the club's official website. "I am ready to step up and I have shown that in the last year. Now I just need to stay fit and show the boss that I am ready to play in the team all season.

"That's what I want to achieve this season because I really think that I have stepped up. I am strong and I can do the job in the centre of defence.

"Theo [Walcott] broke through last season but the centre-back position is always a bit difficult because I am only 22 and there is a lot of experience in the squad in that position. But I need to play to get that experience and I think I did that last season. Now I'm ready to go on from there.

"I think it is good that I am not so well known outside Arsenal. I am the guy who is working hard, the guy who wants to get where he wants to be. I have my belief, I know what I want and it doesn't bother me that I do not have a big reputation yet. I want to do my thing and be the best at Arsenal."