16. Aaron Ramsey

When he signed for Arsenal in the summer of 2008, Aaron said his decision to move from Cardiff to North London had been influenced by Arsène Wenger's penchant for giving youngsters first-team opportunities.

The Welshman was vindicated last term when he made 22 appearances for the senior side - the same number that he finished his Bluebirds career with after rising through the ranks at Ninian Park to become their youngest player at the age of 16 years 124 days.

Aaron turned down Manchester United to join Arsenal and he has already showed just why Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson rate him so highly. Technically sound, assured in possession and blessed with an eye for goal, Aaron is one of the most promising young players in Britain.

He has already played in an FA Cup Final, coming on as a substitute when Cardiff were beaten by Portsmouth in May 2008. And he has already scored in the Champions League, firing a shot in off the post when Arsenal beat Fenerbahce 5-2 in last season's competition.

Aaron admits he is a "different animal" after a year at Emirates Stadium and is expected to start more games this term after making more than half of his appearances as a substitute last season. He laid down a marker for a run in the team with some outstanding pre-season displays and a goal against Portsmouth to open his Premier League account.

Aaron is expected to be a shining light at Arsenal for years to come and he will be just as important to his country. The youngest player to represent Wales at Under-21 level, Aaron made his senior debut against Denmark in November 2008 and heads a new generation of Welsh talent which also includes Jack Collison and Chris Gunter.

 

MY YEAR

October

Aaron scored his first senior-international goal in October bagging Wales' second of a 2-0 win over Liechtenstein. Aaron was introduced as a substitute in Arsenal's 1-1 draw in Alkmaar and in the 3-0 win over Spurs. He played 90 minutes in the Carling Cup win over Liverpool.

October

Aaron scored his first senior-international goal in October bagging Wales' second of a 2-0 win over Liechtenstein. Aaron was introduced as a substitute in Arsenal's 1-1 draw in Alkmaar and in the 3-0 win over Spurs. He played 90 minutes in the Carling Cup win over Liverpool.

September

Aaron made three substitute appearances for the Gunners in September and played 90 minutes in the Carling Cup against West Brom. Speaking exclusively to Arsenal TV Online the Welshman said he was excited about his involvement with the first-team this season.

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