Podolski happy with Arsenal fans

Lukas Podolski was left delighted with how the Arsenal fans reacted to him during the team’s last pre-season friendly against Cologne at the weekend. The summer signing scored two goals against his former club on his Arsenal debut and there is no doubt that the Gunners faithful enjoyed what he had to offer. In fact, he looks set to be a fans favourite from the very beginning. Commenting on the reaction he had, the German international said: “First match and first goals. I was very surprised by the reaction of the Arsenal fans. I heard them chanting my name and it was crazy.” “I have felt part of Arsenal from the first day, to score in my first match was great. I need another two weeks to be fully ready.” Big things are certainly expected of Podolski. Those assessing the football betting markets note how he is a top class striker and one who many think will fit into English football very well. Now, after a flying start, he will want to hit the ground running too. Part of the Arsenal’s fans reaction could have been to do with Robin Van Persie of course. The Dutchman came on for Podolski and got a far less positive reaction. This is after Van Persie said he wouldn’t be signing a new deal at the club as he searched for a move away. However, he is still an Arsenal player at the moment and looks set to be for the start of the new season. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wants him to stay too, saying: “Robin scored 30 goals last season and you want to keep your best player.” “He was player of the year in England. We want to keep him. I cannot tell you more at the moment because I don’t know more.” “There’s no news on Van Persie. Our fans want him to stay so you can understand they are excited. Anything I could say about Van Persie would be a lie because he’s our player and that’s it.” Arsenal kick off their Premier League campaign against Sunderland this weekend with the home crowd set to get fully behind Podolski and this new-look Arsenal team. As for Van Persie, who knows what his involvement will be.