Among the thousands of granite tiles inscribed with Arsenal fans’ messages on the ground outside the Emirates is one that reads simply: “Grandad, hope you’re proud.” It’s from Carl Jenkinson, a third-generation Arsenal supporter, former resident of the Upper West Stand at Highbury and now right back chasing a 70th appearance for the club he serves with a passion.

To spend a couple of hours in Jenkinson’s company at the genteel Sopwell House hotel — very Arsenal — near the training ground at London Colney in Hertfordshire is to understand the 27-year-old’s deep love for the club. Attending a rugby school in Essex, and working his way up at Charlton Athletic, his heart was always with Arsenal, whom he joined for £1 million in 2011.