Arsenal FC News: Exposure Boosts Hector Bellerin’s Confidence

Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin is getting more and more comfortable featuring for the first-team, as Arsene Wenger gives him the needed exposure.

The 19-year-old Spaniard, who initially honed his skills at FC Barcelona's La Masia before moving to north London as a 16-year-old in 2011, has been getting the breaks he needs in the ongoing campaign due to the Gunners injury woes at the back.

He played full 90 minutes against Borussia Dortmund and Galatasaray in the Champions League, and delivered his first assist as a senior on Sunday (AEST) when they thrashed Newcastle United, 4-1.

"When you play your first games you're just trying not to make a mistake," he told Arsenal.com.

"That's how you face it and then as you get more confident you start playing the way you usually play."

"You get the confidence from the players and the coaches around you and I feel more comfortable every time I get to play, so Saturday (Sunday) was definitely my best performance. It was thanks to all the people who have put confidence and trust in me because that's what actually lets you play freely."

The rest of the squad, especially the veterans, also played their part in making him more effective on the pitch.

"Everyone's been really supportive after I was taken off at half-time [against Stoke]. It's obviously the boss' decision and it was good because we scored twice after that, but all the experienced players know when they need to help you and they've all been really supportive. Thanks to them I had that reaction on Saturday," he added.

"Per said in a few interviews that I need to speak more and to be more communicative on the pitch. Santi told me to play my game, forget about everything else and just enjoy myself on the pitch. That's what I've been taking on board and I think I'm doing it better."

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