Arsenal star Joel Campbell determined to keep first-team role ahead of Alexis Sanchez injury return

Arsenal star Joel Campbell is refusing to take his spot in Arsene Wenger's line-up for granted ahead of the second half of the season, despite the Costa Rica international emerging as one of the biggest revelations for the Gunners in the opening part of the campaign.

The 23-year-old forward was overlooked for the first 10 Premier League games of the season, following his return to the Emirates Stadium after a short spell on loan at Villarreal. However, his versatility allowed him to take advantage of the injuries to Aaron Ramsey, Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Alexis Sanchez to show Wenger he deserves a role in his plans.

Campbell has since made 18 appearances for the club (12 as a starter) scoring three goals and setting up a further two. He has made headlines in crucial games like the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur and the latest FA Cup 3-1 victory over Sunderland on Saturday (9 January) – where he scored the equaliser before playing a major part in Aaron Ramsey's second goal

Wenger himself has described the forward as the "Francis Coquelin" of the new season. Campbell is delighted with situation but wary about maintaining his role in the second part of the campaign, with the returns of Sanchez and Tomas Rosicky, and potential new signings, increasing competition for places even further.

"The truth is that I am just doing my job, trying to give my best for the team and taking the opportunities. Thank God things are going well," Campbell said to IBTimes UK after the win over Sunderland.

"I just see myself as another member of the team. Neither more nor less than the rest of my teammates. I am just another player in the squad. Football is like that. It can change from one day to the following one. You're here today but you do not know where you are tomorrow. Today you are in the starting line-up and tomorrow you are on the bench. Football is about moments and you have to take them."

The Costa Rican, nevertheless, is confident that the hard work made since his move to the Gunners in 2011, with four different loans spells abroad, will keep paying off.

"Obviously when someone works well and conscientiously he will always see the fruits, sooner rather than later. I work hard and trust in my ability. And I know that with hard work and effort the things will be all right for me."