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Campbell - Champions League vital for me

Joel Campbell says playing Champions League football has been vital to his development - and he is hoping for more European game time for Arsenal.

The Costa Rica international spent last season on loan at Olympiacos, and scored from 25 yards against Manchester United in the last-16 stage.

Campbell also spent time at Lorient and Real Betis, and he is ready to leave his mark on Europe once again.

"If Arsenal give me the chance to play a Champions League game I have to make the most of the opportunity and show what I am capable of"

Joel Campbell

“My spell in France was about taking my first steps in Europe,” he added. "At Betis the target was not to get relegated, which we managed to do. Playing for Olympiacos was the culmination of all those spells on loan.

"I started regularly the whole season and I played Champions League football. That made me the player I am. Even though I still have several aspects to improve I think I am heading in the right direction. Right now I feel great and ready.

“At Olympiacos I felt confident enough to do the things that I do best, whereas at Betis I felt a bit inhibited. I was very young and I preferred not to take risks such as dribbling or shooting. But at Olympiacos I unchained myself. The manager there gave me the freedom to play and I felt important. That was reflected in my game.

“Playing Champions League football has been a really important addition to my career. It is kind of the World Cup of club football. The level there is extremely high. If Arsenal give me the chance to play a Champions League game I have to make the most of the opportunity and show what I am capable of.”

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