Frida Maanum hails competition for places at Arsenal

Frida Maanum has hailed the competition for places at Arsenal after enjoying a recent run in the side following a spell on the fringes of the starting XI.

Maanum had been yet to start a game for the Gunners during the 2022/23 season, before being thrust into the team for their blockbuster clash with European champions Lyon on Wednesday.

The midfielder turned in a player of the match performance against Lyon, registering a goal and assist and driving Arsenal forward with her relentless energy as the Gunners secured a 5-1 victory.

She was rewarded with another start against Liverpool at the weekend, and again impressed, netting Arsenal's second in their 2-0 victory with a fabulous solo goal.

"I think it's really positive that we have a more competitive squad and it makes the squad even stronger and the players even stronger because you have to work so hard in training to even play and I think that's really strengthening our team," said Maanum.

"I felt good against Lyon and Liverpool. When you're not playing you always want to play, and when you get the chance you want to take it, and I just tried to do my best and I felt good in those games.

"I'm really happy to be here at Arsenal [and] also get game time which I've waited for a long time now."

Maanum was a slightly surprise inclusion in the Arsenal team against Lyon, coming in in place of talisman Vivianne Miedema.

The pair both bring different qualities to the Arsenal side; while Miedema is renowned for her coolness, quick feet and ability to pick a pass, Maanum is known for her athleticism, energy and surging runs.

"Me and Viv are quite different but I think that's good in some ways," Maanum added. "If you play a team that suits me better then I can play, and the other way around with Viv.

"But Jonas knows my strengths and of course my weaknesses as well and in the Lyon game I just tried to be my best."