Arsene and his British revolution

Arsene and his British revolution

When Arsene Wenger was being bullied by the media regarding British players in 2007, he calmly said: "I want us to develop our own British players and bring them up in our footballing culture. I am confident that you will see the benefit of our home-grown structure in the future. Ask me again in five years".

Those who have known him well (like Dein or Keown) knows that he is a man of his word. And guess what? Less than 5 years in his home-grown project, take a look at all the British players currently emerging at Arsenal:

James Shea:  Asked to train with the England squad last year. Covering an emergency at Southampton but has been on the bench at Arsenal in January. Is highly rated by the coaching staff and expect him to be our number 3 next season with Almunia departing.

Kieran Gibbs: Already part of the first team squad despite suffering a few injuries. Has already played 45 times for the first team, including many games in the Champions League. 

Kyle Bartley: Wenger beat both United and Liverpool to his signature in 2007. Suffered a bad injury but has played 40 games (with Sheff United and Scottish giants Rangers) over the past two years and expect the giant centre half to be given a chance in the squad next season.

Aaron Ramsey: Was looking the part at just the age of 18 when "honest" Pulis sent Shawcross to do him. Rebuilt his fitness at Nott Forest and Cardiff with 12 games in the Championship. Recalled by Arsene Wenger who really sees him as part of his plans. Played 27 times for us before the assault.

Jack Wilshere: Pick of the bunch. Brady said five years ago that Arsenal has unearthed one of England´s best talents. Is already a first choice at just 19 and has appeared 27 times for the club.

Henri Lansbury: Impressing at Norwich and is possibly their best player in every game. Will be trying to get a spot in the squad next year. Tormented Spurs in the Carling Cup this season and Wenger rates him.

Theo Walcott: Was thrust into international action too soon and often harshly criticised by the media. But Arsene stood by him and is beginning to reap the benefits. Improving every season and has already featured 165 times for the club at just 21. Has scored 29 times from the wing and is now an established member of the first team.

Conor Henderson: Played well in the FA Cup replay. Will possibly be sent out on loan next year but Wenger has already said that he sees him as a first team player here.

Craig Eastmond : Not the most impressive one but we know that Wenger rates him highly as he started him in the Premiership and in the Champions League. On loan at Millwall and will probably need another loan spell next season.

Emmanuel Frimpong: Has chosen Ghana but yet to play for them so could still be selected by England. Is very highly rated at Arsenal for his strength in midfield and would have featured this season had he not suffered a big injury.

John Harper: Expect Jon Miquel Harper Toral to be "rebranded" John Harper should he be selected by the land of his mother. Barcelona were furious about the deal as he is said to be an outstanding talent.

Jay Emmanuel-Thomas: Versatile, strong, quick and a good finisher. Has impressed on loan at every club he has been and scored an absolute screamer for Cardiff last week. Will be expected to be part of the first team squad next season.