Mikel Arteta is one of the oldest players in the Arsenal squad, but the Spaniard feels playing for one of the younger teams in the English Premier League, also makes him feel likes a youngster on the pitch.

The midfielder recently turned 30, but has shown no signs of his qualities on the pitch diminishing - if anything the Spaniard seems to get better day by day -- now revelling in a holding midfielder's role for the Gunners.

Arteta said his enthusiasm for the game has not dimmed one bit. "I still feel really young and I always have that mentality," he told the club's official website. "For me the age matters only to a point.

"You feel good -- you have that enthusiasm and you love coming into training every day as I do. You play the games and feel proud of where you are. I think that takes your age right down."

Arteta was only brought into Arsenal in the summer of 2011 -- a deadline day transfer from Everton. However, Wenger showed the faith he has in the consistent and dependable Spaniard by making him the vice-captain, a role which Arteta is very proud to hold.

"I'm quite passionate and I can't really be quiet when my blood starts to flow or when things aren't going well, or I think we need to do something more," he said. "I tend to say something, always in a respectful way, and try to help us improve.

"For me it's a big honor (to be vice-captain). I haven't been here for a long time. If he (Wenger) thinks I'm the right person to help (Arsenal captain) Thomas (Vermaelen) lead this group, I'm more than happy with that.

"I take it very seriously and try to benefit the interests of the players and the club. That's what I will try to do this season."