Baptista wants second striker role

Julio Baptista is eager to stamp down his place as Arsenal's first choice second-striker.

Baptista has made a real name for himself in that role in the Carling Cup this season with six goals, but has been unable to command a starting place in that position in the league, often being used to fill holes in midfield.

The Brazilian hopes that his performances in the Carling Cup will be enough for him to prove himself worthy of starting in his favoured position more often.

"This is the competition I'm having most opportunity," said the 25-year-old. "It's the one in which Arsène Wenger is really giving me a chance, the only one where I've been able to show how I am able to play.

"It has been very important to me, as much as anything for my own self-confidence. It shows that when I'm needed I can do the business."

'The Beast' is well aware, of course, that he faces a lot of competition in a talented Arsenal squad.

"Arsène knows that's my best position but sometimes the situation arises that I am needed in other positions and I'll play there. But really the one I want to play in, and know I'm best at, is the second striker role.

"Of course it has been frustrating not to play more but you're competing with international players in every other position."

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