by Mosope Ominiyi

The Welsh central midfielder had a big decision to make in 2008, with both Sir Alex Ferguson and Arséne Wenger interested in securing his services at the time.

Thankfully for Gunners fans, he joined Arsenal as opposed to the red half of Manchester, and despite a few injury-plagued seasons, he has established himself as a regular in the first-team.

At only 24 years of age, Aaron has already silenced those critics skeptical as to whether or not he’d make it in north London, after his devastating leg break five years ago away at the Britannia. He enjoyed his breakthrough season in the 2013-14 campaign, where he scored 16 goals and created ten assists in all competitions as Wenger’s men were firing on all cylinders up until injuries struck across the squad.

When asked about why he opted for a move to Arsenal, he said Wenger’s interest in developing young talent was a major pulling factor in his decision to join from Welsh side Cardiff City.

As quoted by ESPN FC, Ramsey said: “He [Wenger] likes to get young kids with talent and natural ability, and turn them into world-class players.”

He continued, stating: “He’s done that on many occasions in the past – he’ll continue doing that. His experience, knowing how to deal with [young players] is quite remarkable.”

Ramsey, who is versatile in the fact he can play anywhere in midfield from a more holding midfield role to being deployed on the wings, said: “I’ve made a load of appearances now, I definitely feel one of the leaders, but I feel this group of players all have their own leadership skills.”

He’s played 225 competitive fixtures for the club since then, and has shown no signs of stopping anytime soon. Although his persistent injury problems are sometimes worrying, he gives his all for the team – a desirable quality every manager will be striving to have within the base of their team.