Gibbs enjoying injury-free run for Arsenal

The England international has pointed to his improved fitness levels as reason for the consistent form he has displayed as an ever-present for the Gunners this season

Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs believes that his impressive early season form can be attributed to finally shaking off the injury problems that have plagued his previous seasons.

Gibbs has been an ever-present for the Gunners in the Premier League this season and has caught the eye with some rampaging forward play as well solid defensive play, finally cementing his place as first choice left-back.

"I feel my performances have been positive this season," the 23-year-old told the club's official website. "I've kept fit which has been important for me - especially over the last couple of years where I struggled to stay fit.

"I always said if I can get a good run of games under my belt, I can always get stronger and hopefully be more consistent - which is what I’m doing at the minute. I'm happy to be fit and I'm happy to be playing."

A feature of Gibbs' play this season has been his ability to contribute in the attacking third wide on the left, a tactic that particularly came to fruition in the Gunners' 6-1 win over Southampton, where the Saints were forced into two own goals from Gibbs' crosses.

"The boss is always telling me, ever since pre-season, to play high and wide and stretch the team, to let the midfielders have more room," added Gibbs, who has been capped twice for England. "It's part of my game as well and I feel I play the game how I think it should be played. That's probably where that comes from."

Following their 2-1 home defeat to Chelsea on Saturday which ended their previously unbeaten run, the Gunners welcome Olympiakos to the Emirates in the Champions League on Wednesday, looking to claim their second straight win in the competition after seeing off Montpellier in their opening Group B fixture.