Lukas Podolski ready to make his mark

Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has declared that he feels ready to have a big impact in the final part of this season and help the Gunners secure a top-four finish.

The German forward has been a peripheral figure at the Emirates in the last two months, thanks largely to a persistent ankle injury.

After eight weeks without a Premier League start the German international has insisted that he is fit and ready to force his way into Arsene Wenger's side.

He told the club's official website: "I did well earlier in the season, then had an injury which put me out for a few weeks, but now I'm back and hope to play a big part in the final run of matches. But it is the coach's decision, of course.

"Overall I am happy. You must remember I came from a team (Cologne) that was going down, and it wasn't so easy to come straight to a big club and be strong. But I believe I have the quality to play in every game here and think I have done well until now.

"I've scored some goals and made assists, so I am content. But I'll be happiest if we can make the Champions League, because every player, and every team, wants to play at that level. I feel very good here, both in the stadium and out of it."

The 27-year-old has 13 goals in all competitions for Arsenal so far this season.