Arsenal defender Stephan Lichtsteiner has hit back at suggestions that he is considering hanging up his boots for good.
Recent claims had indicated that the 34-year-old has been growing progressively unsettled by his shortage of first-team opportunities at Arsenal, prompting him to reassess his plans for the future.
Unai Emery has two high-quality options to choose from on the right-hand side of the defence, with Lichtsteiner having acted as a deputy to Hector Bellerin in the opening stages of the season.
Lichtsteiner, who remains Switzerland’s national team captain despite his age, joined the Gunners on a free transfer in the summer transfer window after he saw his contract at Juventus come to its expiration.
Speaking to Sport.ch, Lichtstenier discussed his plans for the future and was set in his desire to continue playing at a high level for the seasons to come.
If I have to admit that I can not keep the level of the last few years, then it is time. But then I will not only resign from the Swiss national team but finish my career. Based purely on performance data I have the physicality of a 28-year-old.
Lichtsteiner will be hoping to continue showing his quality and experience to allow him a chance to overtake Bellerin in Emery’s current pecking order of right-backs.
It is quite unusual for me to be a substitute. Three games in a row, that’s never happened to me. If you have achieved a lot in your career, you have high expectations of yourself and want to play. But I also know that I will get the chance to play games.
