Welsh wonder boy Ramsey 'will go all the way'

(GETTY IMAGES)

It has taken the wider football world some time to wake up to what the Arsenal manager, Arsène Wenger, Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson, Everton's David Moyes and the whole of Wales already knew. But Aaron Ramsey has now announced his arrival.

Ramsey will be kicking his heels at home as England attempt to win the European Under-21 Championship in Sweden next June. But should Stuart Pearce's side be successful in Malmo, the chances are they will not have met an opponent as rich in talent and potential as Ramsey.

The Wales Under-21 coach, Brian Flynn, is not using examples lightly when he compares Ramsey to Cesc Fabregas. And some suggest that the youngster is a better player than Ryan Giggs was at the same age.

The early signs are unquestionably good. Comfortable making short and long passes, happy to take possession when marked, superb at finding and exploiting space, Ramsey has many great attributes.

His magnificent execution of the goal he scored at Villa Park in Tuesday night's 2-2 draw in the second leg of the European Championship qualifying play-off, which England won 5-4 on aggregate, even drew praise from the England Under-21 coach, Stuart Pearce. And Ramsey is not yet 18.

"All he has to do to fulfil his potential is continue what he is doing," Flynn said. "He'll get there. I've no doubt about that at all."

After the Cardiff manager, David Jones, had brought him on at half-time in last season's FA Cup final at Wembley, Ramsey was signed for £5m by Wenger despite fierce competition from Ferguson – who claimed to have agreed a fee for him – and Moyes.

"Arsène Wenger's record is second to none." Flynn said. "I know Aaron is happy there and content with the decision he made."