'Tired' Gallas promises to produce best for Arsenal

Gallas: 'Do I experience the most difficult period since I joined Arsenal? We could say yes. Above all I miss consistency' (GETTY IMAGES)

William Gallas has admitted that he has struggled to find his best form so far this season, and in a move which will no doubt surprise fans of Arsenal – who have been critical of the Frenchman's appointment as captain – has even taken personal responsibility for the team's defensive failings.

Despite weighing in with some crucial European goals – including a last-gasp equaliser in the opening Champions League game in Kiev – the centre-half has at times been found wanting at the back, particularly from set-pieces. It is, though, something which Gallas recognises and intends to improve on when Arsenal resume domestic action in a fortnight.

"I can say we have not seen the Gallas from 2006 this term so far. In a few matches, I have not been so good," he told the French sports magazine L'Equipe. "With the French team in Sweden and Austria, I was not very good at some moments. I would close my eyes if I would say I am strong. That would mean I don't recognise I did have a few bad performances – as recently with my club against Hull City [when Arsenal lost 2-1 at home to the newly promoted side]. Maybe I feel a little tired."

Gallas added: "Do I experience the most difficult period since I joined Arsenal? We could say yes. Above all I miss consistency. One match is good, the other one is not so good. However, I am doing everything to get to my best again."