Gallas: Gunners skipper

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• Havard Nordtveit

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William Gallas is hoping to build on his debut season as Arsenal captain and lead the club to success.

The Frenchman was named Gunners skipper last summer, and was initially praised for his work in the role.

However, Gallas' infamous demonstration of frustration at Birmingham City in February saw the defender come in for heavy criticism.

But Arsene Wenger has stood by Gallas for the new term, and the 31-year-old is committed to ensuring he repays the manager's faith.

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

Responsibility

"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.

Loan move

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

Meanwhile, Arsenal have announced that defender Havard Nordtveit has joined Segunda Division club Salamanca on a season-long loan.

Nordtveit, 18, signed for the Gunners last summer from Norwegian side FK Haugesund and captained the club's reserves last season.