I feel like a captain already, Arsenal defender Toure throws his hat in the ring to take over from Gallas

13 April 2012

Kolo Toure has admitted he would welcome the chance to take over from defensive partner William Gallas as Arsenal captain next season.

Gallas was a surprise choice to inherit the armband from Brazilian midfielder Gilberto and has attracted criticism for his leadership at times this season, including after his sit-down protest following Birmingham's last-minute penalty in the 2-2 draw at St Andrews in February.

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Leading by example: Kolo Toure gets stuck in for Arsenal

He was also credited with criticising the development of Theo Walcott despite the teenager making some fine cameos from the bench this year.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has said he will review the situation in the summer and the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Toure have been linked with the role.

"I would be really, really proud to be captain," said the Ivorian centre-half.

"I am now one of the oldest players in the squad so naturally I feel like a captain and it doesn't matter if I have the armband or not.

"It is a decision for the manager and he is the only one who can make it."

Toure went on to question the actions of the Frenchman against the Blues.

"Gallas was really good for us at the start of the season. But then after this Birmingham game he made a mistake, he knows that and we all tried to bring him back to the team and he came back well. But when you make a mistake it is difficult after that - it was a really important part of our season."

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