Mertesacker proud of Gunners team-mates

Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker says he was delighted to see club team-mate Theo Walcott score for England against Sweden at Euro 2012.

The centre-back, who is in the Germany squad for Euro 2012, also expressed his pleasure at the progress of fellow Gunner Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

“I’m very pleased for Theo and Alex. They were both in and out of the team, but then Theo scored and it was a special moment – it always is when you have to wait for your chance and then play like that,” he said.

“He showed that he’s a great player, having had a great season for Arsenal. I think it’s a great thing when you are not in the starting line-up but are able to show your full strength and take your opportunity. He showed that he is very confident.”

The 27-year-old also praised Arsenal-bound Lukas Podolski, who opened the scoring for Germany against Denmark on his 100th appearance for the country.

“Sometimes I have a good feeling about players,” Mertesacker said.

“Lukas showed that he can be a good defensive player but also a good goalscorer – and with his right foot too. It’s very good to have him in the squad because he’s a striker who is always dangerous in every position on the pitch.”

Mertesacker went on to sympathise with fellow centre-back Laurent Koscielny, who has yet to play a minute of action for France at this year’s tournament.

“I’m very happy to see a lot of the players doing well, but I would like to see Laurent play for France too,” he added. “I think we are in the same situation – not playing at the moment and having to be ready for our chance,” he said.