30. Armand Traore

Armand will be hoping to establish himself at Emirates Stadium this season after a positive experience with Portsmouth last term.

The French left-back spent the entire campaign on loan at Fratton Park, making 28 appearances for the south-coast club under three different managers – Harry Redknapp, Tony Adams and Paul Hart.

The first of those was against Manchester United and Armand also lined up against AC Milan in the Uefa Cup – two invaluable experiences for a young footballer.

Armand also scored his first Premier League goal during his spell at Pompey, netting in a 3-1 victory over Sunderland in May. Now his sights are set on the Arsenal first-team – he admitted during the summer that his time away from Emirates Stadium had made him love the club even more.

The French youngster has all the attributes to be an excellent defender in the modern game. He is powerfully built, fast and attack-minded. And the more he plays, the more he will learn the craft of his position.

Signed from Monaco in 2006, Armand has represented France at Under-17, Under-18s and Under-19 level.

 

MY YEAR

October

Armand missed out on the Carling Cup game against Liverpool with a groin injury. After playing for the Reserves against Chelsea at the start of the month, Traore told Arsenal.com that hard work and patience are his key to getting a first-team chance. "I've talked with Arsène Wenger," said the defender. "He says I need to work hard and be patient and that's what I'm going to do".

September

Armand played the opening 69 minutes as Arsenal defeated West Brom 2-0 in the Carling Cup in September. Manager Arsène Wenger lauded the left-back's progress this season and said he may use him in midfield in the future. "He has improved a lot," said Wenger. "Technically, tactically, and mentally he is a lot more mature. I will use him as well now in left-midfield because he has huge power and pace, a good cross, and he's a finisher as well."

August

Armand played 45 minutes in each of Arsenal's pre-season games in August, but didn't make a competitive appearance. He played the first half as the Gunners beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 and the second half in the 3-0 win over Rangers as the Emirates Cup was regained. Traore also came on at half time in Valencia.

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