Turkish international winger Arda Turan has revealed that he struggled at Barcelona this season due to the FIFA transfer ban imposed on the club that meant he was unable to play until January.

“It was tough having to wait six-months before I could play. Trying to get into the Barcelona team is always tough and it is even tougher after missing the first half of the season,” Turan said speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the international friendly against Montenegro.

Turan also revealed that he is confident going into Euro 2016 and that he has reached match fitness.

“It was a struggle to reach match fitness and get back into the swing of things after six-months out but I am back now and we have a strong side going into Euro 2016,” he added.

Despite missing the first six-months for Barcelona, Turan still managed to make 25 appearances scoring twice, providing four assists and winning two trophies – the La Liga and Spanish Cup.

Turan only got to play 46 minutes in the last four league games of the season and was criticised by sections of the Spanish media despite the fact that he only made his debut in January.

Barcelona have transfer listed Turan according to Goal – although the bearded winger and his agent remain adamant that he will be staying at the club next season.

The Turkish international has attracted interest from the Premier League. The Daily Star claim that Turan is top of Jose Mourinho’s transfer shortlist and AS report that Arsenal are lining up a bid.

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