Gallas apologises for captaincy errors

William Gallas has apologised for the mistakes he made last season as Arsenal captain and promised to learn from his errors should Arsene Wenger entrust him with the on-field leadership of the side in the upcoming campaign.

Gallas was criticised for setting a bad example when, after Birmingham City secured a late draw against the Gunners at St Andrews in February, he spent several minutes sitting on the turf after the final whistle in what appeared to be a protest at the decision that led to City's equalising penalty.

“You know I learned a lot, you want to be the best captain, give good advice to your players, but sometimes you can make mistakes as well so I think this season I know what I'm going to do and I know I am ready to change my way to speak to the players,” Gallas told Arsenal TV.

Experienced midfielder Gilberto Silva has left Arsenal for Panathinaikos with recent additions Samir Nasri and Aaron Ramsey enhancing the youthful feel at the Emirates Stadium.

“They (the Arsenal squad) are young,” Gallas said. “They are very shy but it won't be difficult for them to settle in, the squad is fantastic the atmosphere is very good so I think it will be fine for them.

“We have to win something because the trophies are more important at the end of the season.

“Last season we were near to winning something, I hope this season it will be different. Everybody knows what they have to do, we are ready.”