Arsenal youngster Serge Gnabry hopeful of prompting more talk in Germany

Arsenal youngster Serge Gnabry (GETTY IMAGES)

Serge Gnabry hopes to continue generating headlines in his native Germany by starring for Arsenal.

The 17-year-old winger was given his Gunners debut last month and will make his fourth appearance in tomorrow's Capital One Cup fourth-round clash with Reading at Madejski Stadium.

Born in Stuttgart to a German mother and Ivorian father, Gnabry has been attracting attention back home since breaking into the first team.

"My mum is in Germany and she called me the other day to tell me that the telephone went crazy after I made my debut," the Germany Under-16 and 17 international told the Arsenal matchday programme.

"The media knew of me when I was in Stuttgart, but since I joined Arsenal their interest increased.

"I hope I can create some chances of score goals and that will give them more to talk about."

Arsenal signed Gnabry from Stuttgart for £100,000 last season and he soon earned promotion from the Under-18s to the reserves.

His rapid progress continued when he made his club debut in the Capital One Cup against Coventry last month with first appearances in the Barclays Premier League and Champions League quickly following.

"I was just happy to get the chance to get on against Norwich and try to help the team," Gnabry said.

"Like all players, I prefer to start games, but when you watch from the bench you become anxious to get on and play and do something.

"It was the same against Schalke and that is why I felt comfortable.

"I enjoy football and so a chance to play for Arsenal was one I was eager to take to help the team, but also to show what I can contribute.

"I have a lot to learn and improve on and one way is to play games.

"It is a big challenge, but one I am enjoying and the fact that the whole team helps me makes it easier."

The versatile Gnabry believes the fact he remains an unknown quantity works in his favour.

"Defenders and other teams do not know about my game or my style of play, and perhaps that may help, but it is up to me to play my game and take advantage of that," he said.

"I like to play on the left side of the pitch, but I can play on the right or in the middle.

"Anywhere the manager asks me to play, I will play and give my best.

"I know I am still young and have much to learn, but the faith that the manager has shown in me has given me a big boost.

"I'm looking forward to more opportunities to play for the first team so that I can make a real contribution."

PA