Mikel Arteta was believed to face the same curse that the Arsenal captains – William Gallas, Cesc Fabregas Robin van Persie and Thomas Vermaelen endured as the Gunners were expected to part ways with their captain at the end of the season. The Spaniard has now become the first to arrest the pattern as he stated that he would sign an extension to his contract.

Currently on the sidelines trying to regain fitness following an ankle injury, the former Everton midfielder hopes to hit the ground again, thereby prolonging his stay with the London outfit. However, he admitted that he might ply his trade anywhere but Emirates Stadium in the event of failing in his attempts to get back to his finest.

"My only aim is to get back fit and try to perform on the pitch. As long as I do that I am sure that I will continue with this club, with the relationship I have with the club and the respect I have from everybody here.

If I don't do that then I am not going to be here because I don't want to be somewhere where I cannot perform at my best and give what I think I can give."

Arsene Wenger has also registered his eagerness to keep hold of his captain for yet another season and the 33-year-old seems to identify his importance at the club as he admitted that it would take no longer than five minutes to discuss his contract.

"In May, when everything is fine, we will sit down and talk and it will take five minutes."

He has missed vast portions of his campaign following a surgery to his ankle, but he is believed to be in contention for the Gunners’ most decisive game in the Premier League this season as they entertain Chelsea at Emirates Stadium later this month.

The Spanish midfielder admitted that he had made a mistake during the start of rehabilitation, but stated that he would be donning the famous red and white shirt on the turf soon.

"I am not far. I have done five or six sessions with the first team and I am feeling good. I don't feel I am ready to start, but I'm almost there. It has been a long process; I don't want to rush it. I made a mistake at the end of the rehab (from my groin problem), but I think I will be back soon.