Eddie Nketiah admits he has found it frustrating not to start in the Premier League for Arsenal this season, but he is convinced his time will come.
Nketiah signed a new five-year contract this summer after being persuaded he would get more opportunities to play at Arsenal.
The striker, however, has started just one game this season, with that coming in the Europa League against FC Zurich.
He is expected to start again on Thursday against Bodo/Glimt and Nketiah believes his time will come this season.
Asked if it was frustrating not to start a Premier League game yet, Nketiah said: “Yes, as a player everyone wants to play football.
“My aim is to be starting and helping the team, but I respect the coach’s decision.
“It’s down to me keep working hard and putting in the performances. It’s a long season and we’re only a month in. There will be a lot of opportunities for me to play, whether that be in Europe or in the League, and I’ll be ready whenever I’m called upon.
“Obviously signing with Arsenal was my decision and one I was happy with. Obviously the coach has got a tough decision and it is up to me to keep working when I get the opportunity on the field or in training, to show why I should be playing.
“That is what I am going to try and keep trying to do. If I don’t play as much as I would like, I am still going to support the team and whatever minutes I get, I will do my best.
“I am confident that as the season goes on, I will get opportunities and it is up to me to take them.
“When you play for any big club there is always going to be competition. I’m not shy of that. I’m happy to be part of a team that is doing well and will keep pushing hard to show that I deserve more minutes.”
Nketiah has struggled for starts due to the form of summer signing Gabriel Jesus, who has hit the ground running at Arsenal.
“He’s a great player. He’s good to play alongside and also to watch,” Nketiah added.
“He’s had a great start and he’s a great guy off the pitch. So I’m really happy for him and I don’t really see it as me vs him. It’s whatever is best for the team.
“There are going to be times when we are going to play together, and we’ve shown we can do that. I will keep working and with the opportunities I get show why I believe I should play and help the team.”
