'It was very difficult' - Gabriel reveals Mikel Arteta had to convince him to stay at Arsenal in summer

Despite playing a key role in the Gunners' Premier League title challenge last season, the Brazilian defender found his position under threat after the arrival of defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax in the summer transfer window. However, a talk with Arteta was enough to convince him to stay in north London.

"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," he told PA Media. "It is difficult for any player to not be in the team but now I'm back in and I want to keep on working hard to prove my worth. [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."

The 26-year-old found himself stuck on the bench in Arsenal's first Premier League game of the season and came on as a late substitute. Timber sustained a serious injury at the end of the first half of the game, though, and has been out of action since. The Dutchman's absence provided Gabriel the chance to return to the starting XI and he has since started 19 of the 21 league matches he has played in and remains a key part of the title challengers.

Arsenal are looking to maintain the pressure on their rivals Liverpool and Manchester City and Gabriel will hope to help them secure a vital three points when they take on West Ham in the English top-flight on Sunday.