Armand Traore capped a fine performance for Arsenal Reserves against Fulham with a stunning 30-yard free kick in their opening fixture of the season.The Frenchman grabbed a slice of competitive football for the first time this season, and looked commanding both in defence and whenever he roamed forward. Afterwards he discussed the season ahead and his own targets for the campaign.
“I wanted to play as I’ve not since pre-season,” Traore told Arsenal.com. “When the boss told me I’d be here tonight I was very happy.”
On 27 minutes, the 17-year-old unleashed a fierce left-footed drive from 30 yards after a short free-kick was played to him by James Dunne.
“Me, Gael [Clichy] and Mathieu Flamini often practice shooting from far during training,” explained Traore. “Tonight the manager told me I could take the free-kicks so I just tried it and it went in.”
With regard to his plans for the rest of the season, Traore revealed he would not be interested in a move away from the club on loan but didnÂ’t rule out the possibility in the future.
“I still have a lot to learn and I think I can do that at Arsenal. For now I just want to work hard and try to show Arsène Wenger that I can play in the first team.”
