Published: 21 August, 2014
by STEVE BARNETT

CAPTAIN Mikel Arteta believes team-mate Aaron Ramsey is “feeling the love” of the Arsenal fans following some difficult years in north London.  

The Wales international scored a dramatic late winner on Saturday as the Gunners beat Crystal Palace 2-1 in their opening game of the season at the Emirates Stadium, continuing the match-winning form that saw him score 16 goals in all competitions last season. 

Arteta says the midfielder has the potential to get even better – likening him to a former Gunner great who in now plying his trade in west London.

“Aaron is on fire,” he said. “When you have a player like that coming from midfield to score that many goals it gives you something extra. 

“We don’t really have a 30 or 40-goal player at the moment so to have players who can score from the middle of the park is very important.

“He reminds me a little of Cesc Fabregas when he was here. At his best he was coming off the front, making the final ball, and scoring very important goals. 

“I think his confidence is really high at the moment. Physically he can do whatever he wants and technically he is in a very good state so he is one of the most important players in the team.

“I think he will get even better with experience, with knowledge, and with confidence. People fear him now.”