Published: 11 September, 2014
by STEVE BARNETT

SANTI Cazorla says compatriot Mikel Arteta is “the ideal captain” for Arsenal and believes the new skipper thoroughly deserved to receive the captain’s armband. 

The 32-year-old took over from Thomas Vermaelen as club skipper at the start of August, despite the fact that many fans were calling for Aaron Ramsey to be given the responsibility. 

Cazorla, however, felt there was only one real choice when it came to picking a new leader. “It makes me very happy,” he told Arsenal Player. “He really deserves to be captain. 

“There are always players who are born to be a captain and he is one of them.

“He talks a lot on the pitch and also in the dressing room. He is always up for whatever the guys need, and that is what a captain has to do, transmitting conviction in order to keep the team together. 

“He is a guy who lives for football,” Cazorla added. “He is always looking after himself, he is super professional and he also cares about the team. That is why he is the ideal captain.” 

Arteta is hoping to return from an ankle injury against Manchester City on Saturday – which is perfect timing as far as Cazorla is concerned.

“He transmits that motivation you need before an important game,” he said.

“Mikel was doing this when he didn’t wear the armband so now he is the captain he will do so even more.”