Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski has insisted that he is treated with more respect on the streets of England than he is in Germany.

The 27-year-old, who has lived in London since signing for the Gunners last year, believes that the city is a "great" place to explore.

"People in England are more respectful," Podolski told The Sun. "In Germany people grab you with an attitude of 'you are mine, you must do this' and I do not find this in London.

"In England, people leave you alone. Also, London has a great atmosphere. I love looking around and exploring and I have seen all the sights. There are lots of people from different countries — not just Englishmen. There are good restaurants, even German ones. And some particularly good Polish restaurants. I really like it."

Podolski helped his side secure a place in next season's Champions League campaign by finishing fourth in the table.