Egypt's midfielder Mohamed Elneny said he feels honoured to be playing in the English Premier League (EPL) after his recent move to Arsenal.

"I am very proud and happy to be the first Egyptian ever to play for Arsenal. It's a great honour," the 23-year-old told the club's official website in a video interview published on Tuesday afternoon.

"Thanks to God, I has always dreamed of playing for big teams but never imagined myself playing for Arsenal, as it is one of the world's greatest teams," Elneny said.

Elneny, a product of the youth academy of the Cairo giants Ahly before moving to fellow Egyptian Premier League club Arab Contractors, joined Arsenal from Swiss side FC Basel for £6.5 million.

"This move made me aware of how fans love me -- I love them too -- in Egypt, the Arab world and in Europe," he stated.

Egyptian players are capable of performing well in the EPL

Elneny also praised other fellow Egyptians playing in the EPL, as well as revealing that he consulted them before he signed with the Gunners on 14 January.

"Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam made a very good impression on Tottenham, had a good career and played for other big clubs. Amr Zaki played at Wigan and Hull City and Mohamed Salah played for Chelsea," Elneny said.

"Ahmed Elmohamady [Hull City] and Salah told me that playing in the EPL is a unique experience.

"I am very keen to do my best in the England to prove Egyptians are capable of playing very well in the EPL," Elneny added.

I am a normal Egyptian street footballer

Elneny also spoke about his childhood, showing appreciation to his parents, as well as all of his former coaches and teammates.

"I was raised as a very normal Egyptian kid who loved to play football and used to spend more than ten hours a day playing in the streets after school," Elneny said.

"My father is a coach in Mahallah and used to encourage me. He even made me sleep hugging the ball to forge a connection. My mother was encouraging too- she used to accompany me to each club that I joined. I am very thankful to them."

"I am also grateful to my God," he concluded.

Arsenal currently leads the premier league table with 44 points after 22 rounds. Chelsea is in 14th place with 25 points.

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