Lucas Torreira explains reasons for number 11 shirt at Arsenal

New Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira has explained the reasons behind his decision to take the number 11 shirt at the Emirates Stadium. The former Sampdoria midfielder, who has joined the Gunners as part of a reported £25 million deal, is very highly rated and expected to play a regular role for Arsenal's new look side this upcoming season.

Torreira had represented Uruguay at the World Cup and put in a number of impressive displays for his country, capturing the attention of some of Europe's top sides.

“I wanted to pick the number 34 but It was already taken by Xhaka,” he said.

“I chose the number 11 because it's the day of my birthday and I will get the chance to sit next to Mesut Ozil in the dressing room!

"I’m so happy to be part of a team as important as Arsenal, and to play in the the best league in the world.

“When I got to the dressing room I saw that my place was beside Mesut Ozil. It's incredible, a player who has won the World Cup and has had a great career."