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Bellerin - I play with freedom now

Hector Bellerin says he was able to put in his “best performance” against Newcastle United because he is now playing with confidence.

The 19-year-old is still in the early stages of his senior career and has already faced tough tests against Borussia Dortmund and Stoke City.

However, Bellerin has shone in the two games since the Stoke defeat and he believes his good form is a result of playing with freedom.

"I feel more comfortable every time I get to play, so Saturday was definitely my best performance"

Hector Bellerin

“When you play your first games you’re just trying not to make a mistake,” the right back told Arsenal Player. “That’s how you face it and then as you get more confident you start playing the way you usually play.

“You get the confidence from the players and the coaches around you and I feel more comfortable every time I get to play, so Saturday was definitely my best performance. It was thanks to all the people who have put confidence and trust in me because that’s what actually lets you play freely.

“Everyone’s been really supportive after I was taken off at half-time [against Stoke]. It’s obviously the boss’ decision and it was good because we scored twice after that, but all the experienced players know when they need to help you and they’ve all been really supportive. Thanks to them I had that reaction on Saturday.

“Per said in a few interviews that I need to speak more and to be more communicative on the pitch. Santi told me to play my game, forget about everything else and just enjoy myself on the pitch. That’s what I’ve been taking on board and I think I’m doing it better.”

Hector Bellerin