Kieran Gibbs: Arsenal and England's Replacement for Clichy and Cole

Last season, Kieran Gibbs burst onto the footballing scene when Gael Clichy suffered a season-ending injury. The Englishman had rarely featured for Arsenal prior to 2008/2009. But in the tail end of the season, the 20-year-old was given a huge opportunity to gain some serious experience and prove he is a capable left back.

Gibbs was strongly impressive, proving a great deputy for the experienced left back Gael Clichy. Although there were a few rookie errors, the Englishman performed at a high level, and it was evident that Gibbs had a future with Arsenal.

A quick and pacey defender, Gibbs is calm under pressure and is also blessed with a big leap. The England U-21 has natural strength and also offer a strong option down the left when Arsenal are attacking.

Gibbs, who was traditionally a central midfielder, has taken to his new role like a fish to water. After another solid performance in Arsenal's game against Birmingham last weekend, manager Arsene Wenger praised the youngster, insisting he is England's future left back.

Wenger has always had an eye for left backs. The Frenchman moulded the likes of Ashley Cole, Sylvinho and Gael Clichy into strong performing international's, and the Prof looks to be doing the same with Kieran Gibbs.

Although current first choice left back Clichy still has a lengthy career, it's good to know that there is a stunning replacement to put pressure on him to perform. It is also good to know that if another injury occurs, Gibbs is there to fill in.

I believe Gibbs has the ability and is capable to make England's 2010 World Cup Squad. Gibbs has been superb for the England U-21 and has all the right attributes to be a great left back for England.