Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes admits he had a tough start to the season.

Gabriel began the campaign on the bench.

He told the PA news agency: "It was tough, obviously at the start. I wanted to play and it was very difficult for me but I understood what the coach had to do. It is difficult for any player to not be in the team but now I'm back in I want to keep on working hard to prove my worth.

"He (Mikel Arteta) spoke to me and obviously explained the reasons behind the decision. Why I should stay but the most important thing was to remain focused and concentrate he knew how important I was to the team, so I'm happy to be back and to be able to help the team in every game.

"I'm happy to be back in the team and hopefully I can help them moving forward."