Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has admitted that it is an unfamiliar feeling for him to be consistently left out of the starting lineup.

The 31-year-old has started on the bench in five of Arsenal's last eight games, with Gabriel Paulista being preferred alongside Laurent Koscielny at the heart of the defence in recent weeks.

However, Mertesacker insists that he is still feeling positive and will be ready to take his chance if and when it comes.

"I've got to admit it is new to me. I've been around a long time now and this has not so often been the case, but I'm in good spirits, am fit and I have no pain. Of course I'm playing less, but I'm sticking at it. Maybe I'll get another chance. Things change quickly nowadays," he told German website sport1.de.

"You get ups and downs as a footballer and you've just got to remain professional, and I've always been that down the years. That's why I've survived for so long in this business. I listen closely to what the coach says and he knows that he can count on me, no matter what happens.

"I want to show him in every training session that I'm ready when needed. The team needs every player, whether I'm on the bench now or not - I don't just write it off. I always look ahead positively and that is the best way to get over the disappointment of not playing."

Arsenal currently sit 11 points adrift of Premier League leaders Leicester City with just seven games of the season remaining.