Arsenal defender Carl Jenkinson has stated that he is ready to stake a claim for a first-team spot next season. Arsenal are expected to be in the market for a new right back after Bacary Sagna left club on a free transfer. The Frenchman will be joining Manchester City on a bumper contract. Jenkinson, who was the second choice right back at Arsenal last season, says that he has now proven enough over the last few years that he is ready to become a first choice player for the club.

Despite such statements, it is heavily expected that Arsenal will be looking to sign a right-sided defender in the summer transfer window. They are also looking to sign a striker to act as a backup for Olivier Giroud. Jenkinson came through the ranks at Arsenal and he is regarded as a player with a bright future. However, it remains to be seen if Arsene Wenger will be placing his faith on the 22-year-old, who has been prone to the occasional mistake in big matches. Despite Jenkinson’s confidence, there have been reports that Arsenal could be prepared to send him away on a loan deal in the summer.

“I feel that I am ready for it [starting at right-back]. It is never going to be easy to nail down that spot but I believe in myself and I believe in my ability. I want that position to be mine for years to come. Of course I have got a long way to go, because this is a club who look for the best players in the world. If I am going to hold down the position for as long as I want to, I have got a lot of hard work on my hands. But I believe in myself,” said the defender.