Arsene Wenger says he knew straight away that Hector Bellerin had the qualities to become a big player for the club.

The Spanish right back had a fine breakthrough season last term and impressed his manager with the maturity and poise that he displayed.

“His progress has been huge because if you had asked me that question last year, exactly on the same day, I would not have guaranteed you that Bellerin would be a regular player in the club by the end of the season but he managed to do it,” Wenger told Arsenal Player.

"I met him when he was 15... and I could see straight away that there was something special on the hunger side, on the desire and maturity side" Arsene Wenger

“He’s a very serious, mature boy. I met him when he was 15... and I could see straight away that there was something special on the hunger side, on the desire and maturity side. He was a very mature boy very early.

“I expect him to continue to develop [in the new season]," added Wenger. "I expect him to confirm all the good aspects of his game that he has shown, and to accept that he has a tough challenge with Mathieu Debuchy.

“Mathieu is a guy who has always shown unbelievable mental strength and has top quality. He’s a regular player in the French national team so Hector cannot rest. He has a big battle to face.

“I will use Calum Chambers more as a central defender but he can also help out at right back as well.”