Gibbs - I'm fighting for my place

Kieran Gibbs says he is relishing the challenge of winning his place back in the Arsenal team.

The full back has not started a Premier League match since New Year’s Day, with Arsene Wenger preferring Nacho Monreal on the left side of defence.

Gibbs did complete 90 minutes against Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup fourth round, and says he is determined to perform when he next returns to the team.

“At some stage you’re going to have to fight for your place,” the defender said. “It’s the same as last year, when I was playing a lot and other players weren’t.

“You have to respect that, know what it feels like. I have to take my chance when I get it and I’m excited for that challenge.

“It’s never easy but I think it’s something that once you mature, you realise quickly the better you’ll become when you do get the opportunity.

“You have to realise that playing for a club like this is a special thing. It doesn’t get a lot easier, but it’s something that many players have to deal with.”

Having featured regularly in the first half of the season, Calum Chambers has primarily started games from the bench in 2015. Gibbs believes his fellow defender has the maturity to deal with not being in the starting XI.

“I think he’s coped well,” Gibbs said. “He’s a mentally strong boy and he matures quickly.

“I think the first half of the season will have matured him even more. He’s had an explosive first half of the season and he’s available. He’s a great player.”