Sebastien Squillaci tells Arsene Wenger he is ready for Premier League bow against Bolton

09 September 2010 16:05
New Arsenal defender Sebastien Squillaci has told Arsene Wenger he is ready for his Premier League bow against Bolton this weekend. [LNB]The French international joined the Gunners from Sevilla a fortnight ago and made his first appearance for the club in a reserve team win over Blackburn on Tuesday. [LNB]Squillaci came through the game unscathed - although his ego may have taken a hit by the three goals conceded in a 4-3 win - and he has told his manager that he is ready to be thrown in at the deep end on Saturday. [LNB] Up for the fight: Sebastien Squillaci says he is looking forward to the physical side of life in the Premier League[LNB]'Yes of course I'm ready to play against Bolton,' the 30-year-old said through an interpreter on the club's official website. 'But it depends on the coach and other players. If I want to play I must work hard during training.[LNB]'I played 90 minutes for the reserves and felt good physically. Little by little I am picking up the rhythm. I played the whole game and afterward I didn't feel too tired which is a good sign.'[LNB]'It was quite a hard game, but we ended up winning the match which is positive. I thought we played very well but it was a real shame to concede three quite avoidable goals.[LNB]'I am happy enough with my performance but I could have played better, that is for sure, so I will keep working hard to find my form.'[LNB] Strength in depth: French international Squillaci joined the Gunners from Sevilla[LNB]The former Lyon defender adds some much need experience to an Arsenal backline shorn of Sol Campbell, William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre. [LNB]Competition: Another French recruit, Laurent Koscielny, has already impressed since his summer move[LNB]Laurent Koscielny has impressed in his two appearances already for the club, while Johan Djourou is expected to push on after an injury hit couple of seasons. Thomas Vermaelen, too, has remained reliable. [LNB]Squillaci therefore appreciates he faces a fight if he is to squeeze his way into the Arsenal line-up. When he does get his chance, though, he is confident he will be able to handle his new surroundings.[LNB]'For sure I will need a bit of time to adapt,' he continued. 'But I know about English football because I have played against some of the clubs in the Champions League. It is very physical in this league and I like that.[LNB]'It is true I don't speak very good English at the moment but I am picking up all the important words. And yes, I am taking lessons as well. I think the more I play the better my English will become.[LNB]'It is a very big club at every level. I am very happy to be at such a big club like Arsenal and it is up to me to make the most of being here.' [LNB] Squillaci hands Arsenal defensive boost after coming through reservesSquillaci expected to be last arrival at Arsenal as Wenger admits 'dead' dealsArsenal finally confirm signing of French international defender SquillaciARSENAL FC

Source: Daily_Mail