http://d.yimg.com/i/ng/sp/empics/20090926/17/3114295763-soccer-barclays-premier-league-fulham-v-arsenal-craven-cottage.jpgAndrey Arshavin admits he was not at his very best yesterday.

The talented Russian had arguably his first quiet game since joining in February but his teammates coped well to see out a tough 1-0 victory at Fulham.

Arshavin admitted in an interview during the summer that the 0-0 home draw against Fulham during his early days as an Arsenal player was the toughest match he played in last season.

Back from an injury lay-off yesterday, Arshavin struggled to prove things right to Fulham this time around and as a result, was replaced by Rosicky after 68 minutes.

Fulham’s right-back John Pantsil was a tough nut to crack for Arshavin but it was clear a lack of sharpness and certainly not his undoubted ability is what let the Russian down at Craven Cottage.

“I’m not mistaken. The game was not given to us is easily.  I am pleased that we managed to win. Especially, I would like to mention the goal/assist combination. It was good.” Arshavin said.

“Could I have scored? In some occasions I seemed to be doing everything right, but was slow to reach the ball. At that point I had only one desire – to reach out to the ball faster than the defender. I had time, but often fell under the ball, and saw the chance gone.”

After Saturday’s disappointment, Arshavin is definitely not short of motivation ahead of the midweek clash with Olympiakos, and the Russian is now up for Tuesday night.

“There is no reason to discuss this though. Above all, Arsenal won. And I will come in a better mood ahead of the Champions League match.” he said.

SUBSCRIBE TO RED LONDON

Be the first to receive breaking news about Arsenal!