Armand Traore believes Arsenal is the perfect club for a footballer to develop. Traore joined The Gunners in 2005 from Monaco after Arsene Wenger identified his potential.

The powerful 18-year-old has emerged as Wenger's second choice left-back this season, behind Gael Clichy, making seven appearances so far.

Traore has hailed Wenger's policy, and has put his continuous learning down to the blend of youth and experience in the Arsenal squad.

"I have improved more quickly at Arsenal than I would have done at France, where I would never train with professional players," he told L'Equipe.

"I have my idol, Gael Clichy, every day in front of me. And William Gallas never stops giving me advice.

"There is nothing better than Arsenal for a player of my age. Here, the youngsters and the stars all live together."