Summer Arrival Lucas Perez Admits He Had Expected to Play More of a 'Starring Role' at Arsenal

New Arsenal forward Lucas Perez has admitted he expected to play more of a "starring role" following his arrival at the club than he has so far this season.

Speaking to Spanish station Onda Cero, Perez admitted he had hoped to go straight into the first team as a regular and be given the chance to play much more than he actually has. Perezhas only started a mere two games so far- scoring twice in the EFL Cup victory over Nottingham Forest - but has had to contend with substitute appearances mainly.

Great match and happy for my #Champions debut/ Gran partido y contento por mi debut en @ChampionsLeague #AFCvLUD #UCL 😀💪⚽�🔴⚪� pic.twitter.com/0il83wsR5g

His latest appearance came from the bench in the club's 6-0 Champions League win over Ludogorets, and he contributed two assists for Mesut Ozil in the rout. They next welcome Middlesbrough to the Emirates on Saturday afternoon, and Perez will hope to take his chance if he gets one.

He said: "When I first arrived here I expected to have more of a starring role.The teammates that are playing in my position are doing a great job.We have won seven games in a row and, at the end of the day, the coach wants what is best for the team.

"I had hoped to have more playing time, but what I have to do now is make the most of the opportunities I get."

Speaking on the topic shortly after the win over the Bulgarian champions, Perez revealed he is happy to wait for his opportunities and trusts the manager's judgement.

He added:"The coach told me to be quiet because he trusts in me.He says that he has been following me for a long time and that he likes me so I have to be patient. He said that opportunities will come and he has proved it. He is a good guy and is always there to help us.

"When I came to Arsenal I knew where I was coming. I know there are great players here. I have to wait for the opportunity. Everyone wants to play, but the important thing is the team and we have won seven games in a row."

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