Lukas Podolski

Germany forwards says he can play other roles than just a striker

Emirates-bound Lukas Podolski says he could provide cover in a number of forward positions for new manager Arsene Wenger.

Arsenal’s £11million summer signing was thought to have been bought to compete with or play alongside Robin van Persie as a striker.

However at former clubs Cologne and Bayern Munich, the German international has been utilised on the left as well as just behind the frontman.

“In Cologne, I played as a centre forward and also as a playmaker,” He told the Mirror.

“In the national team I play wide on the left. I honestly don’t mind where I play, as long as it’s in a forward position.

“But it’s always the coach who decides where you play and I will do my best wherever I play.”

However it as a forward where Podolski has found most success, scoring 18 goals for a team who finished second bottom of the Bundesliga.

“I had a very good season with Koln, I played well and as a result I’m now going to Euro 2012 in the summer with lots of confidence,” he said.

“After that, I will be joining up with my new team mates at Arsenal and it is my goal just to do my best and be successful there.”