Defender backs Arsenal’s “impact” player

Mertesacker: Podolski will excel with new-look Gunners

By Zain Alvi | 9th August 2012

Per Mertesacker is confident that the new-look Arsenal will stand to benefit tremendously from the summer arrival of compatriot Lukas Podolski, who he has tipped for “massive impact”.

Podolski, 27, only started training for the Gunners two weeks ago but having known the Germany international for many years, Mertesacker has assured the club’s supporters that they are poised to see a high quality of performance from their new forward.

From language confidence to an experienced outlook to a strong skill-set, Mertesacker has praised it all about Podolski.

“From the beginning he was confident about speaking English. He is a confident guy with more than 100 caps for Germany, so he has massive experience. For us to have him here is a massive impact,” Mertesacker asserted.

Elaborating that the combination of summer signings such as Podolski, Olivier Giroud, and Santi Cazorla with a rapidly evolving character in the dressing room is a reflection of a much improved squad, Mertesacker expressed hope that the club can compete confidently for silverware next season.

“I think we have a better situation than last year. The team is full of characters, good players and every position [has competition]. So I am looking forward to the season because I think we can show the potential we have in a better way than last year,” the defender explained.

“We need good signings and I feel that these players will help us a lot. Giroud is a good striker and I have seen a lot of him in training because he was not out in Asia, so we trained a lot together. He made a good effort and hopefully in the games he will show that as well.

“Santi Cazorla has just signed so we will see him in training and in games in the short term,” he added.

Arsene Wenger’s side will get the opportunity to begin showcasing their title credentials as early as August 18, when they host Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium.