Arsenal Transfer News: Moroccan 'Relaxed' About Emirates Future

Marouane Chamakh is set to stay at Arsenal for the winter at least, with the striker insisting that he is happy at the Emirates despite receiving limited game time in favour of Robin van Persie.

Chamakh has made 15 appearances for Arsenal so far this season, but the hitman has found the net just once for the north London club. His starts for the side have also been particularly limited, with van Persie taking front and centre as the Gunners' scoring sensation over the last year.

The 28 year old has admitted being frustrated with his lack of playing time in the past, telling reporters he wouldn't be accepting the situation for the long-term.

"I am 27. I need to play. I cannot stay like this forever," he said last December.

"If I played more, of course I would have more confidence and score more goals."

And while the Morocco international admits he's still not satisfied with hie playing time at Arsenal, Chamakh is hoping to prove the critics wrong and stand alongside the best this season.

"I am relaxed about my future. I've spoken with the coach [Wenger] and I'm staying with Arsenal after the Africa Cup of Nations," Chamakh told the Daily Mirror.

"I think Wenger has confidence in me. It was that reason that I left Bordeaux to join Arsenal. I had some good performances in my first season and it's possible that I can repeat those.

"My agents have had calls from other clubs, but I want to show what I can do in the next few months.

"I'm tired of the rumours, because I only want to be focused on my work for Morocco. Personally, I have a lot more in my game and I want to demonstrate my level.

"Of course I want to play more, but it's very difficult for a forward at Arsenal. The level is very high, but that's the challenge that I was looking for."

Chamakh's absence this month, with the star currently at the Africa Cup of Nations, along with Gervinho being away as well has led Arsene Wenger to sign Thierry Henry on a two month loan deal.

And the legend, who is Arsenal's highest scoring striker of all time, has already made waves in the side, scoring against Leeds on his debut in the FA Cup and having to apologise for arguing with a fan over the loss against Swansea.

Henry's presence in the squad does show that Chamakh and Gervinho are both needed to maintain a high level of depth in the side, and while van Persie continues to find the net, having scored 22 times so far this season, should he become injured Arsenal will have maximum pressure to keep delivering.