Mikel Arteta pleased with defensive role

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta is pleased with how he adjusted to a more defensive role last season.

The 31-year-old moved into a deeper role in the Gunners midfield following the departure of Alex Song to Barcelona last summer.

Arteta told the club's official website: "I feel very happy because I think I have found a level of consistency throughout the whole year.

"I was the man to play in a different role, I had to adapt and I did the best that I could. I have sacrificed myself a lot for the team and worked as hard as I could and tried to help my teammates.

"People may not understand why I don't go forward more but this is my job, it wouldn't be good for the team."

Arteta made 43 appearances for the Gunners last season in all competitions, scoring six goals.