I had a chance to go to Italy when I was younger and that would have been tough because of the language. America is easier but I really loved it.

But to be fair, Arsenal are a quality side. They're not where they are by chance - they are not top of the league and unbeaten because they are a bad team.

My dad being a player. I was never that quick as a kid, so I had to get quicker. I trained hard. I was never that player who could roll out and relax, like Michael [ Owen] or Stevie [ Gerrard], who were natural.

I can't stress the importance of working hard enough, work on all aspects of your game. If you does that and you have the ability, you'll come through.

I'm not silly. I understand that, with age and at different parts of your career, you have different challenges.

Every season will have its dips and hard moments, and the challenge then is to make sure you don't get too down in those moments and make sure you come back fighting.

I had a chance to go to Italy when I was younger and that would have been tough because of the language. America is easier but I really loved it.