Jerome Thomas was born and brought up in the London borough of Brent, near the home of English football Wembley Stadium. But his football education has always had a foreign influence which is now serving him well at Highbury and for his country.

"I don't know why but as a kid I was always a bit different," he says.

"I didn't even support an English team, my brother and my dad were really into European football so my heroes were Ronaldo, Zidane and Figo. I used to watch them all the time on TV and video."

Ronaldo is Jerome's favourite of all and there is something reminiscent of the Brazilian superstar's style when Thomas swivels and weaves his way past defenders on either wing. He'll be looking to do exactly that against Italy's Under-20 side at The Stadium of Light tomorrow night.

"I've played for England in Germany, Lithuania, The Czech Republic, but this is my first home game and I'm really looking forward to it," says the 19-year-old forward who is particularly explosive along the left flank.

Thomas, who has scored for the Gunners in two FA Youth Cup Finals, can now train alongside some of his overseas heroes at Highbury although his squad number, 47, hints at the strength of depth Arsenal have. He is still excited to be there however.

"I've been training with the first team which has been excellent," he says. "I like to think I have a few of the same assets as Thierry Henry, speed, power, skill and so it's great to learn from him. He is a funny guy as well.

"I went on loan to QPR last season and this season and it has been enjoyable. I've been back at Arsenal for a couple of weeks and to be honest I don't mind staying for a bit instead of going back on loan.

"It's good to be at Arsenal under the noses of the coaches so they know what you are doing.

"There are a lot of great players but I genuinely feel I can make it at Arsenal - I have been training with all the guys and have felt comfortable."

Although Thomas plays with a swagger, the teenager doesn't mind taking advice from the Gunners coaching team.

"The thing Pat Rice and the others have told me is to keep the tempo of the game high.

"Sometimes I will try to slow the game down but they stress the importance of doing things at speed."

Thomas says he is always being compared to Jermaine Pennant.


"It doesn't bother either of us because we are both good friends and he plays in a different position to me," says Thomas.

"I wish him well, I know I have to keep my standards high to succeed at Arsenal."