Vice-captain set to receive a permanent promotion.
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is set to hand Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta the permanent position of captain at the Emirates Stadium, report the Daily Mail, as the Gunners prepare for centre back and current incumbent Thomas Vermaelen’s impending departure.
The Belgian is current the official captain of the club, but looks set to be replaced by his vice-captain, Mikel Arteta, who is leading the race to be promoted once Vermaelen’s move away is confirmed.
German centre back Per Mertesacker, influential in the organisation of the Arsenal defence, is also though to be in contention – but experienced former Everton man Arteta remains the favourite to be handed the role by his manager.
However, the fact that Arteta has just 12 months left on his contract may prove to be an issue if the Frenchman is looking for a long-term leader for the Gunners.
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