David O'Leary

On playing ability alone David O’Leary would still have made this board. Chuck in the small matter of 722 appearances, a Club record, and it is easy to understand why this gentle, unassuming man is held in such high regard at Arsenal.

Of course, adoration for long-serving players is not uncommon, but the London-born defender had plenty more than just longevity in his locker. O’Leary was an imperious centre-half who, despite a slender physique, was deceptively powerful. He had pace too, the kind of speed that was rare in players with a similar six-foot frame.

The Republic of Ireland international (he qualified through parentage) originally signed apprentice forms in 1973 and in the early days of his Arsenal career — he made his debut just three months after his 17th birthday in 1975 — provided a touch of youthful exuberance in an aging, and struggling, side. Terry Mancini, a short-term acquisition from Queens Park Rangers, may have drawn most of the plaudits for plugging a leaky defence, but O’Leary’s role in steering the Gunners clear of relegation is not be underestimated.

David was a cultured and composed player, full of grace both in his use of the ball and the manner he loped across the field; he became affectionately known as ‘Spider’. O’Leary oozed calmness too; only in the most critical of situations would he opt to lump the ball forward, instead choosing to build from the back.

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