Former England Captain Praises ‘Exceptional’ Aaron Ramsey

Arsenal youngster Aaron Ramsey has been a crucial figure for Arsene Wenger during their recent revival according to Sky Sports pundit and former England captain Ray Wilkins.

Greater emphasis has been placed on the unassuming Wales captain following the departures of Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas this season, and Wilkins suggests the 20-year-old has thrived on the challenge of being one of Arsenal's most important creative players.

The Gunners have defied their many doubters in the aftermath of their chastening defeat to Manchester United at the end of August, and Wilkins cites the starlet's composure and retention of the ball as one of the major reasons behind Arsenal's superb form of late.

The aforementioned ex-England international believes Ramsey could play a crucial role against Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund this evening, suggesting the midfielder has the ability to transfer his "exceptional" Premier League form onto the European stage.

"Vermealen and Van Persie are the obvious stand-outs for Arsenal in any game, but one young man I think could have a big say is Aaron Ramsey." Wilkins told skysports.com.

"He is an exceptional footballer who has grown this season and is an integral part of that spine that has helped them string together this decent run of results.

"He is so composed on the ball and always seems to find time to pick his pass.

"If he can do that in the Premier League, you would expect him to really flourish in the Champions League."

In addition to backing Ramsey to have a major say on tonight's proceedings, Wilkins believes Dortmund's greater need to win the match could play in to Arsenal's hands given their counter-attacking style.

Wilkins concluded: "Dortmund will want to keep it nice and compact at the Emirates but the bottom line is they need to win this game to stand any chance of progressing, so if Arsenal are solid enough at the back, I can see them picking the visitors off."