I don’t want to quit Arsenal, insists Marouane Chamakh

Marouane Chamakh is confident he has a future at Arsenal, despite reports linking the out-of-form striker with a move away from The Emirates.

Chamakh has joined up with the Morocco squad ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations but the 28-year-old has moved to end speculation surrounding his future.

The former Bourdeaux striker has started just seven games this season, scoring once. “I am relaxed about my future. I’ve spoken with the coach [Wenger] and I’m staying with Arsenal after the Africa Cup of Nations,” Chamakh told the Daily Mirror.

“I think Wenger has confidence in me. It was that reason that I left Bordeaux to join Arsenal. I had some good performances in my first season and it’s possible that I can repeat those.

“My agents have had calls from other clubs, but I want to show what I can do in the next few months.

“I’m tired of the rumours, because I only want to be focused on my work for Morocco. Personally, I have a lot more in my game and I want to demonstrate my level.”

And despite falling behind Robin van Persie, Gervinho and Thierry Henry in the pecking order at Arsenal, Chamakh is eager to stay and fight for his place.

He added: “Of course I want to play more, but it’s very difficult for a forward at Arsenal. The level is very high, but that’s the challenge that I was looking for.”