Robbie Burton has spoken of leaving Arsenal for Dinamo Zagreb in January.
Burton's childhood heroes were ex-Arsenal stars Cesc Fabregas and Jack Wilshere and he captained the Under-23s under both Freddie Ljungberg and Steve Bould before his mid-season departure.
Burton told The Sun: “I went on the pre-season tour of America under Unai Emery last summer and it was a dream for me to be part of the first team. I wasn't star-struck, training with the first team was a good experience and I felt good in that environment.
“From then I wanted to kick on in my career, I was on the bench for the League Cup game against Nottingham Forest but the opportunities didn't come my way.
“It's something that will stay with me that I didn't play for Arsenal in a competitive game. But you can't always get what you want - no matter how much I wanted it.
“My Arsenal contract had been extended for another year just before Christmas but there was interest from Dinamo and I had a meeting with the club and the outcome was that if I wanted to go, I could go.
“I spoke with Freddie and Steve Bould, who was my coach. They thought it would be a good move if I wanted to go and get first-team opportunities.
“Getting game time was crucial and a big factor in me leaving Arsenal and moving to Dinamo was the best decision for me.
“Dinamo is a good club with history where they give chances to young players and put them on the map. It's the biggest team in Croatia, a big fanbase and they play in the Champions League. It all made sense to make the move. I had other options but this seemed the best fit for me.
“As long as I come here, work hard and I'll be okay. Hopefully that is what happens."
