Johan Djourou insists he is ready to fill the void Kolo Toure’s exit has created at Arsenal.

Ivory Coast international Toure has left the Emirates Stadium for Manchester City in a deal worth around £15million, and it remains to be seen how Arsene Wenger will deal with his departure.

Djourou, 22-years-old, believes his coach should leave the chequebook in his drawer, though, as he feels he is finally ready to make a name for himself in the heart of the back four.

“I really hope so,” said the Swiss ace. “I’m ready to step up. Now I just need to stay fit and show the boss that I am ready to play in the team all season. That’s what I want to achieve this season.

“I’m strong and I can do the job in the centre of defence. The centre-back position is always a bit difficult. I’m only 22 and there is a lot of -experience in the squad in that position.

“But I need to play to get that experience. I know what I want and it doesn’t bother me that I don’t have a big reputation yet. I want to do my thing and be the best at Arsenal.”