Eberechi Eze embraces Arsenal competition after scoring in Champions League win over Lille

Arsenal midfielder Eberechi Eze has admitted that competition for places at the Emirates Stadium can be difficult but insists he is enjoying the challenge of earning a regular starting role.

The England international scored during Arsenal's convincing 3-0 Champions League victory over Lille on Tuesday, helping Mikel Arteta's side maintain their winning start in Europe.

Eze was among the goalscorers as Arsenal produced an impressive attacking spell against Lille, with Jurrien Timber and Bukayo Saka also finding the net.

The midfielder struck in the 67th minute after substitute Saka delivered the ball into his path, allowing Eze to finish confidently.

Despite his contribution, the 28-year-old has yet to start a Premier League match this season.

He faces strong competition from Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard for the attacking midfield position.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the victory, Eze acknowledged the challenge of securing consistent playing time.

"It's difficult. Of course every player wants to play and if you don't want to play, you're probably not in the right place," he said.

"The mentality is always to always be on the pitch and to affect games and to earn your place."

Eze added that he remains determined to contribute whenever Arteta gives him an opportunity.

Arsenal's impressive squad depth has created significant competition across several positions as the Premier League champions compete domestically and in Europe.

For Eze, that competition represents an opportunity to improve rather than a reason for frustration.

The midfielder praised the understanding between Arsenal's attacking players following his combination with Saka against Lille.

"The type of players you're playing with, you're always linking, you're always finding spaces and you know that they are going to find you as well," he explained.

Eze also emphasised that he is enjoying his football despite the challenge of breaking into Arteta's preferred starting eleven.

His latest Champions League goal provides another reminder of the attacking quality available to the Arsenal manager.

With a difficult European fixture against Bayern Munich approaching, Arteta will have further decisions to make regarding his midfield selection.

Arsenal travel to Bayern Munich on 21 October as they look to extend their winning start in the Champions League. Eze will hope his performance against Lille strengthens his case for a starting place.