On this day in 1988 Tony Adams wore the captain’s armband at Arsenal for the first time.

Although just a temporary measure as club captain, Kenny Samson, was rested for the 1-1 draw at Portsmouth, Adams was made permanent captain just a few months later on 6 March.

1 January 1988: Tony Adams (right) of Arsenal fights off the challenge of Mark Stein (left) of Luton during the League Cup Final at Wembley Stadium in London. Luton won the match 3-2. Photo Credit: Alsport UK /Allsport
1988: Tony Adams (right) fights off the challenge of Mark Stein (left) of Luton during the League Cup Final at Wembley Stadium in London. Luton won the match 3-2. Photo Credit: Alsport UK /Allsport

He remained Arsenal captain for the next 14 years until he retired from football in 2002. He made 669 appearances across all competitions, winning 10 major trophies and earning the nickname ‘Mr Arsenal’.

Since Adams left the club, Arsenal have had eight permanent captains.

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