Wenger: Gilberto is still captain
July 28, 2007
Arsene Wenger sees “no reason” to take the Arsenal captain’s armband away from Gilberto – but expects others to help in the leadership role next season.
The veteran Brazilian is currently away on an extended break following his exploits in the Copa America this summer, and is set to sit out the start of the new domestic season as a result.
In his absence, William Gallas and Kolo Toure are expected to be the most likely candidates to lead the side who will compete this weekend in the Emirates Cup, which also features Inter Milan, Valencia and Paris St Germain.
Gilberto, 31, stood in for Thierry Henry when the then skipper was out last season.
With his talisman now moved on to Barcelona, Wenger is more than happy to allow the experienced Brazilian to continue leading by example.
“The captain last year was Gilberto and there is no reason to take it away from him,” said the Arsenal boss.
“At the moment in some games it is Gallas and some games it is Kolo because I feel that the centre-back position is the best one from which to captain the teams.
“Those three will be leaders of the team for the season and whoever plays will captain the team.
“We are a very young side and the experienced players have a big part to play, that is why I try to multiply the influence of the big players.”
Toure is more than happy to step into the role when needed.
The Ivory Coast defender said: “I have spent a lot of years here with Mr Wenger, and he is building a fantastic squad.
“I am really happy to be one of the leaders of the team.
“I am 26 now and have played for the club for a long time, and we have some great things to do still with this club and we are all looking forward to it.”
Toure added: “Last season, we played the football, but sometimes did not get the results.
“I think next season will go much better.
“We have learned from what was wrong and we are really focused for all those trophies and know we can make it.”
Wenger revealed he will also be tapping into the experience of men like goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, at 38 the oldest member of the squad.
“Jens could be an interesting choice for club captain because he has a weight inside the squad and is a massive winner,” said the Gunners boss.
“Players like Kolo listen to him, and it is kind of a moral leadership as well, because we are a very young side.”
Story reported by Sporting Life