Goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski says he is ready to battle it out for ArsenalÂ’s No 1 jersey.
The 22-year-old, who joined the Gunners from Legia Warsaw in May, faces tough competition from Jens Lehmann and Manuel Almunia.
However, Fabianski, who has so far impressed in pre-season fixtures against Barnet, Genclerbirligi and Salzburg, says he is relishing the challenge.
“Of course the rivalry is pretty intense,” said the Poland international. “But it is all fair play and according to rules. They [Lehmann and Almunia] are both nice to me and I enjoy working with them. I can’t say a bad word about them because they are both decent blokes.
“We will see what the near future will bring. I know that it won’t be easy to become a first-choice keeper but it never was easy and I expect some tough competition.
“I have to work hard and make my name at this Club. I know that Lehmann is in a better position than me but it doesn’t worry me at all. I just want to focus on hard work and I know that the results will come. I know that I will have my chances. I just need to prove that I am good enough.”
The youngster has already drawn high praise from Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger. The Frenchman has said he has found a goalkeeper with world-class potential — an endorsement which thrilled Fabianski.
“It’s nice to hear such lifting words from the boss,” he said. “I hope I will be a world-class goalkeeper sooner rather than later. Now I must work very hard and try to get as much experience as I can. I hope to considerably improve my abilities to become one of the best.
“I know that it is achievable now that I am at one of the best clubs in Europe.”