Podolski: I have nothing to prove to Wenger

Jun 14, 2012 8:00:00 AM

The Arsenal manager is covering Euro 2012 for French television but the Germany international insists that has not placed any extra pressure on him to perform

Martin Langer
In Kharkiv

EXCLUSIVE

Lukas Podolski has revealed that while he does not feel the need to impress Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger during Euro 2012, the attacker is keen to show his new club's fans what he can do.

The Germany international confirmed at the end of April that he would be leaving his native Koln for north London this summer.

The 27-year-old is determined to prove a big hit at the Emirates Stadium but insists the fact that Wenger was in the stands during die Mannschaft's 2-1 victory over Netherlands on Wednesday night commentating on the Group B clash for French television did not put any extra pressure on his shoulders.

"I don't think I have anything to prove to Arsene Wenger," Podolski told Goal.com. "He has seen me play several times and knows what I can do.

Clark Whitney
In Lviv

Having struggled in his first two games of Euro 2012, Podolski is trying to ward off criticism by referring to his reputation as a tried and true performer. He knows he's under pressure, but thus far has retained Joachim Low's confidence. The Denmark match is critical for him, but if he plays well, Podolski will be back at his best for the matches that matter most.

"I think it is clear that my transfer was no accident and, of course, I'm very glad I signed with Arsenal.

"In fact, what has really pleased me is that Arsenal fans can watch me play in a tournament like this and realise what I'm capable of at the highest level. Very soon I will also show that in London."

Podolski will not link up with the Gunners until next month but he revealed that he is already friendly with one of his new team-mates; Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

"We have exchanged text messages during the Euros to wish each other good luck," the former Bayern Munich man explained. "We have a very good relationship."

Podolski's next appearance for Germany should come against Denmark in Lviv on June 17.

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