Leandro Trossard came off the bench to score Arsenal’s opening goal against Aston Villa (Picture: Getty)
Leandro Trossard admits he wants to be starting matches for Arsenal following his matchwinning cameo against Aston Villa.
The Belgium international has proven to be an inspired signing by Mikel Arteta who sanctioned the decision to spend £27 million on the verstaile forward 18 months ago.
Trossard enjoyed a purple patch during last season’s run-in but has begun the new campaign on the bench, despite Gabriel Martinelli’s loss of confidence.
With Saturday’s tense encounter at Villa Park seemingly destined for a stalemate, Trossard broke the deadlock with his first touch, a typically calm finish after Bukayo Saka’s cutback deflected into his path.
The 29-year-old initially refused to perform his trademark celebration, appearing stony-faced before he was almost bullied into acknowledging the Arsenal fans by William Saliba.
The Gunners face Brighton, Trossard’s former club next weekend, and the former Genk star hopes he has done enough to convince his manager he deserves to regain his place in the starting XI.
‘I think everyone wants to start games and play games obviously then it’s up to the player how they respond,’ said Trossard, who Arteta revealed was ‘upset’ not to have started.
Leandro Trossard was initially subdued after scoring Arsenal’s opening goal against Aston Villa (Picture: Getty)
‘I always want to make an impact if it’s off the bench or as a starter. I think I’ve done my job today to help the team there’s not much more that I can do in that aspect.’
Asked if the level of competition for places has been of benefit, Trossard added: Yeah, definitely. I think you can see it on the pitch as well that I’m feeling great I’ve showed that over the last months and it helps the team as well and pushes everyone in every position. That’s what a club like Arsenal needs.
I always want to make an impact and it’s nice for me that I helped the team again. I’m just very pleased with the goal and the win.
‘Some games there are different celebrations and emotions. I heard Saliba in my ear the whole time telling me to do my celebration and that’s why I did it.
‘It’s nice if your teammates are happy for you to score a goal as well and I think we really needed it at that point in the game and it gave us a boost to go and win the game.
‘It’s something you have to develop. I know the competition in the team and it pushes everyone to go onto the next level.
‘I’m very happy to come in and have an impact and help the team and that’s a great win for us.’
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