Arsenal News: January Signing Gabriel Looks to Arsenal Legend as Ideal Player to Emulate

Gabriel picked out a pretty outstanding former great to emulate as he begins his career as an Arsenal player, with the Brazilian centre-back, signed in the January transfer window by Arsene Wenger, revealing his admiration for Gilberto Silva.

Gilberto is one player that Arsenal have probably missed the most since his departure in 2008, with Wenger, since then, struggling to find a similar defensive midfield player, who made the job of protecting his back-four look so remarkably simple.

And Gabriel, who, it must be said, does not play in Gilberto's position, wants to follow in his compatriot's as he look to make giant strides at Arsenal.

"I remember Gilberto Silva because he was always with the Brazilian national team," Gabriel told Arsenal Player.

"I could see that he was a major element here, he really helped the team, he really is a player I want to emulate because of his type of work and his will to help his teammates, his will to win as a true Brazilian."

Gabriel termed Gilberto as a "mirror" and there are not many better players to try and emulate than the Brazilian midfielder, who was a major part of Arsenal's "Invincibles."

"He was a mirror for every Brazilian player and every child, who looked up to Gilberto Silva as a reference," added Gabriel. "He was an influence for many players, not only Brazilians but players around the world.

"To me he's a mirror, so I will always take many good things I saw in him and take it to the pitch, and off the pitch as well, because I think he was an excellent professional who did many good things.

"I want to be like him, to be able to do the most I can to help everyone."

Gabriel was an unused substitute in the 5-0 victory over Aston Villa on Sunday, and with matches set to come thick and fast over the next few months, the central defender is expected to get a game soon, and he will want to make as big an impact, as quickly as possible.