23. Andrey Arshavin

Andrey arrived at Emirates Stadium in one of last season’s most protracted transfer sagas. He was definitely worth the wait.

The Russian playmaker proved almost instantly that he is a world-class talent who can make a big difference to this Arsenal side.

He scored an outstanding goal against Blackburn to open his account – finding the top corner from an improbable angle – and hit all four in arguably the match of the season as Arsenal and Liverpool shared eight goals at Anfield.

Andrey’s vision, technical ability and eye for goal gave Arsenal an extra dimension and one stat summed up his impact perfectly. When the Russian was in the side last season, Arsenal averaged 2.42 goals per game. When he was sidelined, that dropped to 0.5.

Andrey moved to Arsenal from his home-town club, Zenit St. Petersburg after helping them lift the Uefa Cup in 2007. He captains the Russian national side and stood out with his exceptional displays at Euro 2008, scoring twice and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament.

Andrey’s versatility is another big plus for Arsenal. He started his Gunners career on the flank but can also play through the centre, as he does for his country.

At 28 the diminutive forward is at his peak. That is a mouth-watering prospect for anyone who follows Arsenal.

 

MY YEAR

October

Andrey scored twice for Arsenal in October. He netted the third goal in the 6-2 win over Blackburn and secured the points against Birmingham by scoring the final goal in a 3-1 win. He also bagged Russia's only goal in their final World Cup qualifying game, a 1-1 draw away to Azerbaijan.

September

Andrey aggravated a groin injury while on international duty with Russia, ruling him out until the end of the month. Andrey made his return in the 1-0 win over Fulham and then backheeled home Arsenal's second goal in the 2-0 win against Olympiacos.

August

Andrey started the new season where he left off in May. The Russian was in superb form and had two goals to show for it. The first was Arsenal's third in the Champions League Play-Off second leg at home to Celtic, and the second was stunning. With five minutes to go until half time at Old Trafford, the match was goalless. But Arshavin wasn't content with being level with Manchester United at the break. Picking up the ball 25 yards out on the left side, Andrey unleashed a thunderous shot into the top corner of Ben Foster's net.

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