Arsenal forward Lukas Podolski has declared that his first full pre-season can help form the basis of a strong campaign with the Gunners.
The German international missed the club's summer tour of Asia last year due to his involvement at the European Championships, joining the Gunners later on their return to Europe.
Podolski believes that keeping the core of Arsene Wenger's squad fit and healthy will contribute towards a successful season, starting with a thorough workout in the Far East.
He told The Sun: "It will be good to be back in training and I feel fit. This is a very important time of the year.
"This will be my first tour with Arsenal and I am really looking forward to it. I hope Arsenal can have a good pre-season and, hopefully, all of us can be injury free.
"It is good to have Jack Wilshere back but we need all our players to be available. This year will be better."
The 28-year-old returned to pre-season training with the Gunners yesterday and insisted that he would welcome competition from Gonzalo Higuain or Wayne Rooney if they join the club this summer.
Liam Power
