Joel Campbell hopes he is given a chance at Arsenal

Joel Campbell

Olympiakos midfielder Joel Campbell has insisted he wants to return to Arsenal and fight for a place in Arsene Wenger’s side after his stunning curled strike helped defeat Manchester United in the Champions League last 16.

The Costa Rican, who will face England at the World Cup in the summer, signed for the north Londoners in 2011 but failed to secure a work permit and has spent loan spells with Lorient and Real Betis before joining the Greek outfit at the start of the season.

The 21-year-old may have been a relative unknown to the Gunners faithful until last night, but has become an instant hit, having scored such a crucial goal that leaves their Premier League rivals on the verge of elimination from Europe’s pinnacle competition.

“I am still hopeful of playing for Arsenal but I have not been given the chance yet, I hope to keep working at Olympiakos. I am making sure that I take this opportunity,” he said.

“We played every well against a very good team and we weren’t intimidated. There is still a very hard game at Old Trafford and we hope to advance to the next round.

“Thank God I scored a goal and celebrated it with my father, girlfriend and cousins. There are many things I can improve on though, I am 21 and I have to keep working,” he insisted.

The forward also took to Twitter as he could not hide his delight at the result, having finally announced himself to the world despite failing to feature for his parent club.

Joel Campbell has completed seven take ons in the Champions League this season, more than any other Olympiakos player.

A night to remember / Una noche para recordar pic.twitter.com/CuqmH3qa1O

— Joel Campbell (@joel_campbell12) February 25, 2014