Arsenal’s silent leader wants more than cup cameos

The most important figure in the Arsenal team for tomorrow’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City will not be big money January signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, World Cup winner Mesut Ozil, or England international Jack Wilshere.

For previously unsung Nacho Monreal has emerged this season as the unlikely leader who has done more than anyone else to hold together a Gunners’ season which has once again not lived up to expectations.

The versatile defender’s importance was again shown when he was rested for Thursday’s Europa League last 32 second leg at home to Ostersunds, and the team were embarrassed 2-1.