Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker has said he struggled to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League following his arrival at the end of the summer 2011 transfer window.

• Blog: In the mixer

Mertesacker, 28, was criticised for his early performances in Arsenal colours, when he appeared out of his depth in a defence that was creaking badly.

The Germany international explained that he had "needed some time" to find his feet in England, with his ...

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