Yaya Sanogo adapting to life at Arsenal with focus on "improving strength"

Yaya Sanogo in action for Arsenal

Arsenal newcomer Yaya Sanogo has confessed that he must “improve his strength” in order to become a successful Arsenal player, Sky Sports reports.

The French international arrived at the Emirates on a free transfer from Ligue 1 side Auxerre this summer.

Sanogo has come off the bench twice for the Gunners so far this season and has admitted that he needs time to get used to the pace of English football.

“I think I’ll have to toughen up and improve my strength, that’s part and parcel of such an intense league as the Premier League, as well as getting used to the step up, which it is from the French league,” Sanogo told the club’s official website.

“My main aims are to come here and learn, progress in the game and learn my trade with such great players. Now I’m training with them, I’ll gradually make progress.”

The 20-year-old feels that he has settled into Arsenal’s system and has called on fans to be patient with him as he reaches his full potential.

“I’ve got used to my team-mates really well,” added Sanogo. “I’ve had time with and spoken to people like Bacary Sagna who’s from Auxerre too and this has really helped me to settle in.

“I’ve felt really well ever since I got here.

“It gives me confidence [to see Sagna and Abou Diaby], they’ve taken the same path [from Auxerre], got into the team and they’ve done really well here so I’d like and hope to emulate what they’ve done.

“But I will need time, it’s a new way of life, a new league and it will take time to adapt. It’s something I will manage.

The striker scored 11 goals in 21 appearances for Auxerre and has represented France on Under 16, Under 17, Under 19, Under 20 and Under 21 levels.