Clichy's surprise visit to French Soccer School

Arsenal defender Gael Clichy visited an Arsenal Soccer School in his hometown of Toulouse, France last week. The Soccer School, based within the International School of Toulouse, enjoyed two hours of Gael’s company when he answered questions and signed autographs for over 70 children and staff.

The 22-year-old French international surprised the boys and girls aged seven to 14 years, who regularly attend the Arsenal Soccer School, on last Thursday afternoon during a training session.

Gael said: “It was a pleasure to visit the training session and meet the young players. The children were really motivated and applied. I was impressed with their technical qualities. The spirit of the session was much like the training with Arsenal - enjoying playing good football while working on technical ability.”

The Gunner, recently voted second in the fans’ Player of the Season poll on Arsenal.com, featured most for Arsenal making 49 appearances in all competitions including every Premier League and Champions League fixture.

Neil Harvey of the Toulouse Arsenal Soccer School said: “It was an absolute pleasure to host Gael Clichy here at the International School of Toulouse. Gael was fantastic with the kids and really energetic too, and encouraged them with their football. His visit really made our year, and the memory will live on forever!”