Gunners skipper thinks he can become a real leader

4:24pm Monday 18th August 2008

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WILLIAM Gallas believes he will be a better leader this year after drawing on the experience he gained from being Arsenal skipper last season.

The Frenchman arrived at the Emirates last summer from Chelsea and was immediately handed the captain's armband by Arsene Wenger despite many people believing Gilberto Silva or Kolo Toure would get the nod.

And it has proved a controversial choice, as Gallas' exploits last season - which included a one-man sit-down protest in the game against Birmingham City in February - have brought into question his ability to lead the side to another title tilt.

It was thought that Cesc Fabregas may have been given the chance to lead the team this term, but Wenger has stuck with his central defender and Gallas insists he is giving it his all.

"I am very pleased to carry on as club captain this season," he said.

"It was my first season as captain last year, and although I am 31 now, I am still learning.

"I really enjoyed the responsibility last season, everyone could see that, and I tried to do the best job I possibly could.

"It was a really positive experience and this season I have to use that, and carry on doing my best for the team.

"I know a lot more about the job now thanks to last season."

Gallas also urged his team-mates to launch a sustained assault on the league title this year after the Gunners fell away despite a strong first-half last term.

"It is true that we have the objective of doing better than we did last season, so we have to keep on improving, that has to be our aim."