Gunners manager Arsene Wenger fielded the club's youngest ever side on Tuesday - with an average age of 19 - as they comprehensively beat Sheffield United 6-0 in the third round of the Carling Cup.

Mexican forward Vela was impressive on the night and struck an eye-catching hat-trick.

Arsenal's emerging talent has since been hailed in the press, but Vela is remaining grounded.

He said: "All of the players looked as though they have a great future here, but none of us can be certain of that.

"Some will make it with Arsenal but we all know that others won't.

still young

"We are very close as a group of players. Our friendship is so strong that it's almost like we are a family.

"The manager has a great reputation for working with young players. That was the main attraction for me to sign for Arsenal.

"He has given us all a lot of advice and the benefits of his work were shown against Sheffield United."

Of his three separate loan spells in Spain, Vela added: "It was good to go out on loan because I know I'm still young.

"It helped develop and improve my football. I believe I am ready and Arsene Wenger brought me back because he believes I am ready.

"But I just need to be calm and consistent and get into the first team."