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Rosicky ready for rough and tumble
Tomas Rosicky reckons he will have "no problems" dealing with the Premiership's fast and physical football this season.

Robert Pires described the English game as "a streetfight" after watching his first Arsenal game from the bench.

But his replacement Rosicky is ready for a scrap after joining the Gunners for £6.8million from Borussia Dortmund.

The Czech Republic playmaker said: "It's different in England to the way we play in Germany.

"Everything is a little bit harder and faster here but I've been able to prepare myself well.

"I'm not the strongest player in the world but I'm not afraid of engaging in a duel. I've no problems with that."

Rosicky, 25, is only 5ft 8ins tall and slight. He is a gifted attacking midfielder, known as "Little Mozart" in his native Czech Republic.

But international team-mates like Chelsea's Petr Cech claims he is renowned for his resilience and wiry strength on the ball as well as his artistry.

Rosicky, in the Czech squad to face Serbia on Wednesday, is expected to make his Premiership debut against Aston Villa on Saturday.

He made his competitive Arsenal debut in last week's 3-0 win away to Dinamo Zagreb in the first leg of the Champions League qualifier.

Rosicky said: "I've always really wanted to play for Arsenal simply because of the different way they play their football compared to other teams.

"I've wanted to come here for a while. There had been contact before from Arsenal without a concrete offer but this time there was.

"The opportunity to come here felt like one of the best moves I could possibly make.

"I enjoy the way Arsenal play football and it feels nice. I feel like I fit in quite well.

"The team is very strong and I feel we will be able to do very well in whatever competition we play in, including the Champions League."

Boss Arsene Wenger played Rosicky on the left in Zagreb, instead of Jose Antonio Reyes, but the newcomer is versatile and happy to play anywhere.

Rosicky said: "In my career at the many different clubs, I've played in many different positions, in midfield and in attack.

"I don't feel there's a specific position that is my favourite.

"It all depends on how the team plays. That will determine where I fit in best."

Rosicky's father Jiri played for Czechoslovakia and has been a major influence on his career.

Rosicky said: "My dad was, and still is, one of the most important people in my life especially in the area of football.

"He has taught me a lot in things and helped advance my career in many different ways."

http://www.teamtalk.com/football/story/0,16368,1766_1414089,00.html