Speculations about new signings in January’s transfer window were already published on Arsenal despite January being three months away. Manager Arsene Wenger, as always, had to rubbish such rumours by yet again declaring he believes in the youngsters who will play an important part during this season.

Speaking of “the Carling Cup kids”, the Frenchman told the News of the World:

We now have Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and Carlos Vela ready. They are 17, 18 and 20 years old.

They should not have to switch clubs in order to be able to play. In that case, all the work we put into them would have been wasted.

Teenagers at Arsenal are given a sound training in football and an excellent social training.

They live with guest parents whom we have been monitoring and selecting for years.

Cesc Fabregas (now skipper) and Philippe Senderos lived with the same guest mother. She brought them to Champions League matches in her little Renault 5.