Cesc bowled over by Gunners fans

The young Spaniard made his Gunners debut in the Carling Cup penalty shoot-out win over Rotherham, and eulogised about the atmosphere at Highbury.

"It was incredible. They (the fans) never stop encouraging you even when you're losing. I loved it," said the teenager.

"Spanish fans are perhaps more impatient. Here they would never whistle you, while in Spain people get more nervous."

Cesc eclipsed the mark set by Jermaine Pennant after making his Arsenal bow at the tender age of just 16 years and 177 days, but insisted he was not overawed by his opening taste of first team football in England.

"I always felt very comfortable. I didn't feel intimidated," the former Barca youth product continued.

"I tried to give my all and play the best I could."