Gunners playmaker, Granit Xhaka defends slow start to life at Arsenal ahead of Basel clash

The Swiss midfielder was Arsenal's big-money signing in the summer, but has made only 10 starts so far at the Emirates

Xhaka is confident of his own ability (Photo: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal's big-money summer acquistion, Granit Xhaka, has defended his start to life at the Emirates.
The Swiss international, 24, became the club's third-most expensive signing in their history in May, when he agreed to a £30million move from German side, Borussia Monchengladbach.
Xhaka has so far failed to nail down a first-team spot under Arsene Wenger, starting 10 games in all competitions so far.
On Tuesday night, he returns to familiar surroundings, as the Gunners meet Swiss champions, Basel in the Champions League.
Wenger's men are looking to secure top spot in the group, ahead of PSG, and Xhaka is expected to start against the club with whom he began his career.
And the midfielder says that it is normal to need a bedding in period when adapting to a new team, in a new league.

Xhaka was at the heart of Arsenal's midfield in the thrashing of West Ham (Photo: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
"Well, actually, it's normal when you come to a new club and country," said the Swiss.
"You need to get used to the language, the philosophy of the team, the squad, the coach.
"But I do feel very happy and comfortable here, and I know the potential I have. In football you just have to develop yourself."

Wenger has no doubts in the Swiss star's ability (Photo: Getty)
Xhaka's arrival came on the back of his most successful season with Gladbach, often made captain at the side as they claimed fourth spot in the Bundesliga last term.
And Gunners boss, Wenger, has no doubt that he will come good.
"I’m very happy with Granit’s commitment. I think he’s developing well," Wenger said.
"He hasn’t maybe started enough since the start of the season but he is adapting to a different league, a different way of playing.

Xhaka faces off against his brother in Switzerland (Photo: Reuters)
"I believe he has adjusted to the intensity of the game already and the duels in the middle of the park.
"He has the stature to deal with that. He can bring a good balance between offensive efficiency and defensively as well. He has improved already all round.
"Overall I’m happy because every day he’s focused on working hard and I’m confident he’ll get his number of games."