Cesc Fàbregas was present at London Colney this morning, as the majority of Arsenal’s first-team and Reserve players returned for pre-season training.

The captain made a surprise early appearance, as he wasn’t due back until tomorrow. A number of other first-team players who were involved in post-season internationals were missing, including Samir Nasri, while Gael Clichy was in the North ahead of his medical with Manchester City. This meant the early focus is on some of the fringe youngsters, including those who have returned from loan spells.

Ryo Miyaichi and Wellington Silva were both present, and could be a part of the squad that jets off on the Asian early next week.

This week will be a mixture of gym, fitness and general medical work, all designed to assess the players after their summer break.

While the focus has been on whether Nasri will sign a new contract or not, Arsenal FC have quitely moved on another of their last year contractors in the form of the inconsistent left-back Gael Clichy. The French international left the club for Man City for a undisclosed fee (£7m!)and is rumoured to be earning £120,000 a week, which is nearly double his present amount. Well, good luck to him and all, but I would really hate his goddamn guts if he has a screamer against us a la Gallas.

As for his replacement, there is no way that we can trust Gibbs to make the step up this season at least. Last year alone he spent 80% of the season out of action, and we will need someone more present than that!

Eboue filled in on emergencies during some cup matches, but he is not suited for the left flank. Sure, he is more defensive-minded then, but I find his crossing to be among the best this team has. He is a good backup, but is nowhere near the quality that the first team requires.

Vermaelen has been said to be ready to move to left-back and so make use of both his diagonal balls and his shooting skills. In my opinion, this will be a mistake. He is the best centre-back this team has, and we want our best players in the positions they enjoy in. That was a characteristic of the Invincibles. Each one was playing in the position they enjoyed playing in and that was why they succeeded.

One man who could come in and just fill in (and perhaps spill over!) Clichy’s boots is the Everton full-back Leighton Baines. English, and only 27, he is everything this team needs (and more). He’s a great defender with a great left foot and can really put in some quality crosses. He is also a set-piece specialist, so can really help out while van persie takes his usual sabatical.

Newcastle’s Jose Enrique is also a good player linked with us. While he may not be accomplished going forward, he is one of the best fullbacks you will find in the Premier League this season. A hardworking and energetic lad, but he is also prone to putting in the odd late challenge like his teammate Barton.