Cesc Backs Thomas and Tomas to Shine

By Zain Alvi | 15th October 2009

Cesc Backs Thomas and Tomas to Shine | read this item

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While Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas has clearly enjoyed his Spain side cruise to the World Cup 2010 finals with a perfect record (and no goals conceded at home), he has spoken to Arsenal.com to offer some backing to a couple of his teammates who won’t be appearing in the showpiece event next summer. The midfield maestro has tipped Belgian defender Thomas Vermaelen and Czech midfielder Tomas Rosicky to shine for the Gunners in the long battle for silverware that lies ahead.

Following Vermaelen’s second EA Sports Player of the Month award in a row, the increasingly popular defender is sure to become even more jubilant after discovering Cesc’s praise for his technical prowess. The Arsenal captain told the club’s official website: “I’m a big fan of him. He’s been doing so well.”

“It’s difficult in this position, especially from centre back because you will always be compared to some other players, or if you know that your defence is one of your weaknesses then you have to do even better to be loved by the people, and I think the fans clicked straight away with him since his first game.”

“These days, to have a centre back that can play, you know, these balls on the ground, between the lines, and past players, for players like me in midfield it’s really good because it gives you so much time and so much space on the ball. It’s really good.”

Fabregas went as far as suggesting that Vermaelen’s experience as the captain of Ajax Amsterdam has already prepared the Belgian to become a locker room leader at Arsenal. Hence, the Spaniard does not feel the need to micro-manage the club’s latest signing at all.

“The way he is playing I don’t think he needs any advice [from me]. I am sure he is a very strong guy with a strong mentality. You can see he has been a captain before because he is strong and he knows how to lead a team.”

Fabregas did, however, feel the need to remind Tomas Rosicky that he very much remains a key player at The Emirates Stadium. While he recognized Rosicky’s struggles over the course of an injury prone career, Cesc is confident that the Czech playmaker is ready for his breakout season.

“It’s great to have him back and I’m really happy for him. I have learned a lot from him as well – to be strong and keep believing. He believed in himself, that he could play football and it is great to see him play. I think he has done very well and he gives you so many options. You can see straight away the vision he has, the touch, the class that he plays with. It’s great to have him in the team; he’s like a new signing.”

Arsene Wenger’s men host Alex McLeish’s struggling Birmigham City this weekend. The visitors will hope that their recent takeover by Hong Kong’s business tycoon Carson Yeung will propel them forward rather than distracting them in North London. The Gunners, on the other hand, hope to remain in the title picture by continuing a strong recovery following two tough defeats away to both Manchester clubs.

How important will Vermaelen and Rosicky be this season? Have your say below!

The Binocular says:

October 16, 2009 at 1:43 pm

I think Rosicky looks sharp but it is last chance saloon for him. At the age of 29 he needs to deliver and stay fit.

Vermaelen just seems fearless. Adapted to the conditions very well.

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