Chamakh ponders Arsenal future

12 December 2011 13:17

Marouane Chamakh admits he cannot remain a bit-part player with Arsenal "forever" and is hoping to get more chances to impress at Emirates Stadium.

The Morocco forward was a hit in his early days with the Gunners following a free transfer from Bordeaux, and scored 11 goals in his first season. However, given the prolific form of captain Robin van Persie, the 27-year-old has now found chances limited - with just one start in the Barclays Premier League this term.

Chamakh, who along with Arsenal's Ivory Coast forward Gervinho, is set to head to the African Nations Cup in January, told French TV station TF1's Telefoot: "I am 27. I need to play. I cannot stay like this forever. If I played more, of course I would have more confidence and score more goals."

Chamakh revealed he would have an "important decision" to make in the summer, and indicated if he were to return to France one day in his career, Bordeaux would be the preferred destination.

Arsenal have turned their campaign around, reaching the last 16 of the Champions League while seven wins out of eight have seen them climb into the top four of the Premier League following Saturday's 1-0 victory over Everton, which was settled by a stunning volley from Van Persie.

Arsene Wenger admits his back-up attacking options will be stretched during the African Nations Cup, but has ruled out bringing in any more forwards during the transfer window, preferring instead to give South Korea captain Park Ju-young and Russian Andrey Arshavin the opportunity to impress.

The Arsenal manager has also appeared to rule out a move for Lyon playmaker Yoann Gourcuff.

Wenger told Canal+: "He is a player I like a lot and I believe people have been very critical towards him in France. However, we won't be in the winter market for any midfield positions considering that our players are back from injuries."

Source: PA