Ramsey explains Gunners choice

Welsh starlet felt Wenger wanted him more than Fergie

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 30th January 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Ramsey explains Gunners choice

Ramsey: Star in the making

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Aaron Ramsey has revealed that Arsenal's dedication to signing him convinced him to snub Manchester United.

The Welshman was wanted by both Premier League giants in the summer of 2008, having shot to prominence in a Cardiff side which reached the FA Cup final that year.

Despite still being in his teens, he turned 19 on Boxing Day last year, Ramsey was considered to be one of the hottest properties in British football.

This was a fact not lost on Arsenal and United, who were falling over each other in an effort to land his signature.

In the end it was the Gunners who prevailed, with Arsene Wenger's reputation for nurturing young talent into world class superstars working in the capital club's favour.

Arsenal also displayed a greater desire to secure his services, with Ramsey flown out to Switzerland to meet with Wenger as he worked as a television pundit for Euro 2008.

It was that commitment to the cause which ultimately swayed Ramsey's decision, with the Wales international of the opinion that he made the right choice in choosing North London over the North West.

Opportunities

"I felt more wanted here [at Arsenal]," Ramsey told The Independent.

"By that I mean they did more things to try to get me. They had a plan set out for me and knew exactly where they wanted to develop me. The sort of thing they said was 'You can improve on this' and 'This is what you are good at, so we will do this'.

"I think that the boss here has brought through a lot more youngsters and given them opportunities on a more regular basis. And that is what he believes in, picking out talented young players and turning them into great players so hopefully I can be in that category.

He added: "It was great having these clubs after me but I am pretty level-headed.

"My parents kept my feet on the ground. I just concentrated on playing football and letting that do the talking.

"Obviously it was nice to hear that clubs wanted me. I'm where I wanted to be - in the best league in the world.

"As for the plane trip I was just really looking forward to meeting the boss and hearing what he had to say. It was a great experience. That was a factor in making up my mind."