Arsenal midfielder Mikel Arteta has admitted that he feels relieved to be back in the squad following injury.

The Gunners captain made just 12 appearances last season after suffering with calf problems then undergoing ankle surgery at the beginning of this year.

Arteta has said that he is happy to be challenging for a first-team place again after returning to full fitness.

"I really missed it [when I was out]. I had a really tough period last year after my last game in November and I went through some really difficult moments with my surgery," the 33-year-old told Arsenal's official website.

"I'm here because I want to play games, make this team more successful and be a part of it. When I'm not able to do that I still have to contribute, be positive, be good around the other players, give advice and try to help my teammates. But it is not the same.

"But I worked really hard and tried to stay positive, do my best and here I am again now, earning my place in the squad and ready to help the team."

Arteta has played three times for Arsenal so far this season.