34. Kyle Bartley
After an injury-ravaged first campaign in North London, imposing centre-back Kyle Bartley came to the fore last season playing an integral role in the FA Youth Cup success as well as making 13 appearances for Neil Banfield’s Reserve side.
Signed from Bolton on a scholarship deal in the summer of 2007, Kyle arrived at Arsenal having already represented England u-16s at Wembley against their Spanish counterparts. Following a successful trial, Arsenal beat a host of clubs to his signature and big things were expected of the defender.
However, his first season didn’t go to plan following a succession of injuries and he also lost his place in the international set up as well.
Despite the disappointments, the youngster recieved a huge boost after signing his first professional contract in the summer of 2008 and went into the new season full of confidence.
He began the campaign in the u-18s but soon became one of the first names on Neil Banfield’s team-sheet for the Reserves where he came up against Didier Drogba, Kanu and David Nugent all in the first few weeks of the season.
Some mistakes may have been made, particularly in the 4-1 capitulation at home to Aston Villa but Kyle was determined to make amends. A slight drop in form in mid-October saw him pushed back down into the u-18s but he remained strong and impressed Steve Bould as he developed a successful partnership with Luke Ayling at the heart of the defence.
That partnership would play a key role in the FA Youth Cup success, with Bartley also adding another string to his bow in the form of scoring from set-pieces- something he was previously criticised for.
His goal at White Hart Lane against Spurs was scruffy but proved to be vital, whilst he also got on the scoresheet against Manchester City at Emirates Stadium.
Typically resolute in both legs of the Final against Liverpool, Kyle will be hoping to break into the Carling Cup squad this season, although there is also the possibility of a loan spell to a Championship or League One club.
Born May 22, 1991
Signed scholarship Summer 2007
Signed professional Summer 2008
terrific player. do you think he will be involved in the carling cup squad?
he was exceptional in the youth cup, i cant believe how strong in the air he is. i reckon he has a good chance of getting into the carling cup squad as nordtveit is out on loan. djourou might get in ahead of him though as he rarely gets first team football.