I did not come here to sit on the bench, says Xhaka

Nov 9, 2012 11:21:00 AM

The Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder has expressed his frustration at his prolonged spell as a substitute and is eager to get back into the starting XI

Granit Xhaka says he did not move to Germany to sit on the bench.

The Switzerland international has become frustrated with life as a bit-part player with Borussia Monchengladbach, after making nine appearances since his €8.5million move from FC Basel in the summer.

But, despite his early challenges, he insists a move away from the club is not the solution.

"That's not my style," Xhaka insisted to Express.de.

"I know Lazio have been asking questions. I really cannot say anything right now. Yes, I am honoured, but even a club of that stature is off limits. I am staying here, but I did not come here to sit on the bench," he confirmed.

"This is something new for me. So far, I have been lucky in my career. I have to face this situation and assert myself. I have to be hard on myself and show the coach that I belong on the pitch and not in the background.

"I must not give up under any circumstances, but I do not like it."

Gladbach are currently 11th in the Bundesliga table with 13 points from 10 games and sit in third place in their Europa League group, five points behind Group C leaders Fenerbahce.

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