Marouane Chamakh has brushed off the notion he could suffer from ‘second season syndrome’ and instead vowed to have an even bigger impact for Arsenal in the forthcoming campaign.
The 27-year-old Morrocan international made an impressive start to his Gunners career, scoring ten goals in his first seventeen appearances for Arsene Wenger’s side.
He struggled to maintain his form throughout the season though, particularly after the return of Robin Van Persie in January, but Chamakh is confident having fully adapted to the rigours of the Barclays Premier League and acclimatised to the English culture, he can deliver more consistent performances in 2011-12.
“I think it’ll in fact be easier,” Chamakh told Arsenal.com. “I understand both the football and the group better, and I now have many friends in this team. So I aim to keep improving and to make a big contribution.?
“Your first pre-season is always difficult, you have to accustom yourself to new training and make new friends, but we’re all together and everything looks fine.”
Arsenal host the Emirates Cup this weekend with planned fixtures against Boca Juniors (Saturday) and New York Red Bulls (Sunday) which will see the return of Gunners legend Thierry Henry.
Reflecting on the club’s pre-season preparations so far, which has included trips to the Far East and Germany, Chamakh responded positively about both excursions.
“I think it was a good, new experience for the entire squad,” he continued. “It was surprising to see the number of fans Arsenal have over there and I think it proved to us what a big club this is.
“For us it was good to spend time in a different culture, while the supporters could watch us in matches and training, and see a lot of the club.?
“Germany was a bit different. There were fewer supporters around and the training was harder both for us and the staff. But we played a good match against Cologne and had some great facilities there, so we’re happy with how it has gone.”
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