Tomas Rosicky spoke to the media while on duty for the Czech Republic national side, and he revealed that there is substance to the Petr Cech rumours. He also discussed his own future at Arsenal, revealing both that it was a club decision to trigger the option that extended his contract by a year, and that he has been frustrated by a lack of playing time. Arseblog News has the translation:
Regarding the missing out in the FA Cup final - "It was a huge disappointment."
How would you explain that? - "I don't know what to say. Since the coach activated the option (to extend the contract), I haven't even been on the bench."
From outside this doesn't make any sense. - "Well, It doesn't make any sense to me either."
It must be frustrating. - "Of course it is. Do you think I like it?"
From the outside, it doesn't look like Rosicky is thrilled with the amount of playing time he has gotten. Rosicky only started 8 games this past season, the fewest amount during his time at the club, aside from 2008/09, when he of course missed the whole season. His only game time after March 21 was 9 minutes off the bench against Sunderland, and he was left out of the side for both the FA Cup semi-final and final. It was rumoured in November that Rosicky was on the verge of leaving before a spate of injuries meant he started a run of games, and it would not be the same if he is looking for a move this summer. While it makes complete sense for Arsenal to keep him--he is a good and experienced depth piece--this is one of the time when the interests of the club and the interests of the player clash.