Hiddink: Arshavin will be a success at Arsenal

Arshavin is working on his match fitness but is expected to make his first appearance for the Gunners in the near future.

“Arsenal have signed a wonderful player,” Hiddink told Sport Express.

“I want Andrei to feel good in London as much as Andrei wants it himself. I expect him to become one of the key players at Arsenal.

“I like his stubborn and tough character, his ability to think and behave unconventionally. I think the transfer would probably have been impossible if the player did not want it so much.

“He always sets targets and does everything to achieve it. Failures do not break him – on the contrary, they make him stronger.

“It is very important that he gets used to the new team quickly and gets into his best form. If it happens soon enough, he will become part of the club.

“I spoke to the head coach of Arsenal, Arsene Wenger, about Andrei, of course – about his qualities and abilities.

“Arsene hopes that Andrei will serve them well and likes the way Andrei has been welcomed into the team.”