Injuries and the form of Gael Clichy restricted Kieran Gibbs to 20 appearances during the 2010/11 season but, from what we saw in those games, it is only a matter of time before this highly-rated left back is pushing for a regular starting spot.

After making his England debut in a friendly against Hungary in August, Arsène Wenger assured Kieran that he would get his chance in the first team. That opportunity arrived in the Carling Cup against Tottenham but injury saw him limp off with what Wenger feared was a broken metatarsal.

A scan showed no fracture but Kieran suffered yet more bad luck as he was withdrawn after just 18 minutes during the 4-0 Carling Cup win over Newcastle with another knock before being stretchered off against Partizan.

He returned to full fitness in January and enjoyed a run in the side, playing four times in cup competitions. Clichy’s consistency kept Kieran on the bench during the second half of the season but an injury to the Frenchman saw him start Arsenal’s final three games.

If he can stay injury free in 2011/12, there is no doubt the England international will be challenging to make a place on the left of the Arsenal defence his own.

SOUNDBITE

“I just want to stay injury free and stay on top of my fitness. It has been hard - I won’t lie - it’s been annoying and frustrating seeing your team play all the time, going there and limping off after 15 minutes. It’s been frustrating but I have got a few games under my belt now so hopefully I can put that behind me and keep going.”

KIERAN GIBBS 2010/11 SEASON STATSCompetition Appearances Goals

League 7 0

FA Cup 6 0

Carling Cup 4 0

Champions League

3 0

Totals 20 0

FINEST MOMENT

Kieran made his England debut as a half-time substitute in a friendly against Hungary in August. The Arsenal defender impressed at Wembley and helped Fabio Capello’s side to a 2-1 victory.

Arsenal.com