Fine Young Bloods

Wenger has placed his trust once again in his youngsters before his transfer kitty for next season is even confirmed.

Three young names come to mind: Eboue, Djourou and Bendtner.

Eboue, 23, has come a long way in a short space of time since joining from Belgian club Beveren two years ago.Eboue retained his place at right-back for Arsenal following the return to fitness of veteran Lauren, who was eventually released to join Portsmouth. (Quietly left, I dont even know about it.) However, for all his strengths, particularly in helping support the attack down the flanks, Eboue is still somewhat a raw talent - and prone to the odd loss of self control, as shown during his involvement in the melee at the end of the Carling Cup final which earned him a three-match ban.

Wenger, though, clearly believes that Eboue has a bright future ahead, despite the club not revealing the length of the 'long-term contract'. What do you think? Is he that good? i thgt Lauren was more stable and Kerria Gerrant before his injury was much better. By the way, Kerria was English.

Another young Gunner hoping for more first-team action next season is Johan Djourou.
Djourou have made 30 appearances this season, mostly at centre-back and proved stable and confident in his position. He was even called up to the senior Swiss side and made some appearances for his country.

'I am very proud of my season. I am only 20 and I have played a lot of games in the Premiership,' said Djourou, whose progress was hampered by a groin problem.
'That is all good for my experience and I hope I can keep going now, to play even more.'

Djourou added: 'Guys like Cesc [Fabregas], Denilson and Justin Hoyte, who have all shown that they are ready when called upon to play. We just have to be more consistent and then we can start challenging for trophies"

'We have had a couple of injuries, with Thierry and Gallas, which was a bit of a blow for us - but now if everyone is back, we will have a chance for everything.'

Wenger is also about to tie up another youngster on an extended contract. Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner is set to return to Arsenal following a successful spell at Coca-Cola Championship winners Birmingham. Reports from Denmark suggest Bendtner, 19, is to be handed a new, five-year deal with the Gunners. The young Gunner has even scored a goal for his country during his call up for his nation.

All in all, it seems the average age of our young team will go even lower with more youngsters hogging the limelight. Now, it seems like Kolo Toure at 26 years of age is an old papa and Jens Lehmann is the great grand father......