Bacary Sagna: Happy to cover at centre-back if required

The French defender moved into the heart of the Gunners' defence during their tour of Asia following an injury to Thomas Vermaelen, and was also selected in the position against Galatasaray last Sunday.

Although primarily a right-back, Sagna is pleased to just be playing a part in Arsenal's pre-season campaign after missing out last year through injury.

The 30-year-old told the club's website: "I'm quite pleased (with my pre-season). I was injured last season so I didn't have any pre-season and I think you could see it in my performances.

"I was not as sharp as I used to be so I'm very happy to start from the beginning and I'm looking forward to win something this season."

He added: "Playing at centre-back started last season. Laurent Koscielny was injured at Sunderland and the coach came to me asking if I wanted to play centre-back because we had no cover.

"I just went for it and tried to adapt as quickly as possible.

"On the pitch everything is different but it's okay for me. It's different but I love learning.

"I see myself as a right-back but if I have to cover sometimes or play centre-back, I will do it for the club, my team and myself as well."