• Premier League

Podolski keen to play centrally for Gunners

ESPN staff
November 8, 2012

Lukas Podolski has joined Theo Walcott in calling for an opportunity to play a more central role for Arsenal after admitting he is frustrated at being pushed out to the left wing.

Podolski was again played out wide during Arsenal's Champions League win over Schalke on Tuesday, with Olivier Giroud starting in the centre of the Gunners' attack.

Despite providing the assist for Giroud's goal, Podolski believes his scoring opportunities are limited when playing on the left and he has demanded an opportunity to switch positions.

Walcott made the same request recently and his move to central striker saw him net a hat-trick in Arsenal's Capital One Cup rout at Reading.

After being the focal point at FC Koln, Podolski admits it has been difficult adjusting to his new role.

"I'd rather play centrally up front," he said. "On the left I have to do a lot of defensive work, constantly running up and down. I am not a classical winger.

"Arsenal was a change, a different country and a new club. I am getting along well, for sure, but I demand more of myself - I want to play even better."

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