Arshavin on why he didn’t take spot-kick himself and new role

After witnessing Fabregas’ unfortunate penalty miss against Stoke City, some might have rued why Andrey Arshavin did not step up to convert from the spot himself.

The 28-year-old went on to prove the virtuoso performer of Saturday’s win anyway but could have netted more than a single goal on another day.

After falling victim to Rory’s Delap’s foul in the penalty-box, Arshavin handed over the golden chance to skipper Fabregas.

Arguably the most recognized goalscorer in Arsenal’s line-up on the day, the Russian was odds on to convert but Arshavin revealed he would have taken over spot-kick duty in the absence Van Persie if not for Wenger’s instructions ahead of the match.

“I did not take the penalty kick because the coach before the game calls the name of the person who should do it.” Arshavin said.

Even so, on a bizarre weekend where penalty-kicks were saved every where in the Premier League – with Dindane, Lampard and Defoe all denied – Arshavin could have had similar luck from 12-yards out.

The former Zenith forward ran the show well as Arsenal’s lone frontman yesterday but despite enjoying that role, Arshavin does not expect to play there regularly.

“Basically, I was comfortable playing in that position.  However, I do not think that this is the position in which I should play.” he added