Cardiff's Arsenal Loanee Returns

Arsenal's teenage full-back Kerrea Gilbert has left Cardiff City and returned to London after spending the season on loan with the Bluebirds.

The player came highly recommended and immediately went into the starting line-up. Tenascious and pacy, Gilbert looked comfortable on the ball and was a major part of the scintillating form that typified Cardiff City's start to the season.


Some doubts persevered over his positional sense and aerial prowess, but the young right-back impressed on the large and got forward to help Parry whenever possible, his overlaps caused problems for opposition defences but always managed to get back if needed.


Gilbert picked up a childish and needless red card in a 1-0 defeat at Norwich City, acquiring a 3 match ban in the process.

Towards the latter part of the season, Gilbert played somewhat less of a role. The emergence of 17 year old Chris Gunter, Football League Apprentice of the Year' and an un-revealed 'problem' affected his form and he was ommitted from matchday squads.


Gilbert returned at the end of the season and showed glimpses of his early form. However, despite revealing he would like to make the switch permanent - Gilbert has been released by Dave Jones and the manager has stated he will not be pursuing a permanent deal for the player.


Gilbert now returns to Arsenal after a solid first full season. He has shown potential but with the Gunners planning an end-of-season revamp of their own - Gilbert could be forced out of Arsenal due to a lack of first team opportunities.

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