Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey has agreed a new long-term contract with Arsenal. The 18-year-old arrived at Emirates Stadium from Cardiff City last summer in what was understood to be a £5million deal.

Ramsey made 22 first team appearances for the Gunners, starting with the UEFA Champions League qualifier against Steve McClaren's FC Twente.

The former Cardiff youngster netted his first, and so far only, senior goal in the 5-2 European victory at Fenerbahce in October.

Aaron made a very good contribution in his first season and he showed that he is a very intelligent player with great quality.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is more than happy with Ramsey's progress so far.

"Aaron made a very good contribution in his first season and he showed that he is a very intelligent player with great quality," said Wenger.

"He is still only 18 and we are really looking forward to seeing him develop with us in the forthcoming years."

Quartet signed
Arsenal yesterday handed professional contracts to four members of their successful FA Youth Cup team, while confirming Portugal Under-21 international Amaury Bischoff was one of eight players released.

Goalkeeper James Shea [18] and defenders Luke Ayling [17], Craig Eastmond [18] and Cedric Evina [17] have all been signed on by the Gunners following an impressive campaign which involved the youngsters winning the FA Premier Academy League under the guidance of former centre-half Steve Bould.