18. Mikael Silvestre

Mikael is one of the most decorated footballers in Premier League history and the most experienced man in the Arsenal squad.
The French defender signed on a two-year deal from Manchester United in August 2008 and has proved to be a valuable squad member ever since.

Mikael’s versatility is well known – he can operate at left-back as well as his more familiar centre-back role – and he made 23 appearances in all competitions last season.

Calm in possession, strong in the air and an excellent reader of the game, Mikael is also a threat at the other end of the pitch and scored twice in his first season at Emirates Stadium. He endeared himself to Arsenal fans with a header against Tottenham and tucked away a neat finish in a 4-1 win at Wigan.

Before moving to Arsenal, Mikael had been with Manchester United since 1999, winning a host of domestic honours including four Premier League titles, one FA Cup winner’s medal and a League Cup winner’s medal.

He was also part of the Champions League-winning side of 2008 and made a total of 361 appearances for the United, scoring 10 goals.

Silvestre, who debuted for French national side in 2001, has made a total of 40 appearances for Les Bleus. The highlights of his international career include winning the Confederations Cup in both 2001 and 2003 and reaching the World Cup Final in 2006.

 

MY YEAR

October

Mikael captained Arsenal in the 2-1 Carling Cup win over Liverpool. He also played for the Reserves in their 2-0 home win over Chelsea. After the match Mikael spoke to Arsenal TV Online and insisted Gunners fans are yet to see the best of him.

September

Mikael captained Arsenal to a 2-0 Carling Cup win against West Brom but didn’t feature in any other Gunners fixtures during September.

August

Mikael didn't feature in any of Arsenal's competitive games in August but did play 90 minutes as the Gunners beat Rangers to regain the Emirates Cup.

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