Stephen Lichtsteiner has admitted he feels frustrated warming the bench at Arsenal.

The 37-year-old, signed as a free agent from Juventus, has served as a back-up for Hector Bellerin so far this season.

"I could have changed to five other clubs in the summer, knowing that I would certainly play 47 out of 50 serious matches," Lichtsteiner told Swiss publication Sportal.

"It doesn't irritate me, as in 2011, when I moved to Juventus, I wanted to join a big club. I was looking for a demanding challenge in a new league.

"That's why I knew from the very beginning at Arsenal that I had to fight for the regular spot against Hector Bellerin.

"For me, stepping down has never been up for debate.

"If I have to admit that I can not keep the level of the last few years, then it is time.

"But then I will not only resign from the Swiss national team, but finish my career. Based purely on performance data I have the physicality of a 28-year-old.

"It is quite unusual for me to be a substitute. Three games in a row [on the bench], that's never happened to me.

"If you have achieved a lot in your career, you have high expectations of yourself and want to play. But I also know that I will get the chance to play games."