Mikel Arteta has declared that he has made a concerted effort to behave professionally in order to set an example for other players and supporters.

The Arsenal midfielder has been a revelation in a deeper role since joining the Gunners from Everton on transfer deadline day last summer.

Arteta, who has seen his performances rewarded with the Arsenal vice-captaincy by Arsene Wenger, believes that footballers have a responsibility to behave in the right manner.

He told the club's official magazine: "On the pitch and away from it I have been trying to behave the way I think we should, because I think we have a big responsibility.

"Not only for ourselves but for what we represent to other people. We are in a very lucky position and we have to take advantage of that and use it in the right way.

"Sometimes we make too many mistakes. I am still 30, and I'm used to playing with guys who are 34, 35 and 36, but at Arsenal when you get to that age you are one of the oldest, if not the oldest."

The Spaniard has been ever-present in an Arsenal side that has lost just one Premier League game so far this season.