Gervinho: 'I needed a new challenge'

Roma forward Gervinho has said that he left Arsenal because he felt he needed a new challenge.

The Ivorian signed for the Serie A side earlier this summer and explained his reasoning behind wanting to leave the Gunners.

"It was a real pleasure for me playing for Arsenal, but after two years of ups and downs it was time for a change," Gervinho told reporters.

"Roma is a great team with a great coach (Rudi Garcia). Roma showed interest in me and I had no hesitation in accepting their offer.

"I want to show I can contribute to this team. I am not in top condition at the moment, but Garcia knows me well and knows that I still have some work to do to get fit."

Gervinho signed for the Italians for a reported fee of €8m (£6m) earlier this summer.