Reyes cleared to Play
January 30, 2004

Spanish winger Jose Antonio Reyes could play his first game for Arsenal against Manchester City on Sunday. The club's record signing has been cleared to go straight into the team after a one-match suspension incurred at Sevilla was not transferred. Signed for an initial £7m, Reyes could eventually cost the Gunners £17m. But he believes he can cope with the pressure, saying: I'm just going to continue playing my game. That's why I was brought here." Several other clubs were interested in signing Reyes, but Arsenal stepped up their interest and clinched his signature. "I wasn't really aware that other clubs were interested in me," he said. "But when I knew that Arsenal were interested I decided that they were the club for me. "There is a great collection of international stars here, and what impresses me is the speed and precision with which Arsenal play." Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is confident Reyes can fit into his team's attack-minded system. "To win games, you need great players," said the Frenchman. "His qualities suit the way that we play, because he has great pace and technical quality - and he is mobile. He can reinforce our dynamic way of playing. "But we must be patient with him - we don't want to put too much pressure on him by saying that he is a wonderkid. We need to give him time to adapt."