Silvestre relishing responsibility

Veteran Mikael Silvestre is happy to be the elder statesman helping guide a young Arsenal side he feels can grow in stature following their stunning 5-2 Champions League win over Fenerbahce in Istanbul.

Arsene Wenger’s Gunners – who were without injured captain William Gallas plus fellow defenders Kolo Toure and Bacary Sagna – look a huge step towards the knockout stages following an accomplished attacking display at the intimidating Sukru Saracoglu stadium, racing into a 2-0 lead inside the opening 11 minutes.