As a long time veteran of the computer games industry when I hear of an Arsenal player at a press launch – my shirt for signing and my camera are all over the event like a rash!

At the launch of Gameloft’s ‘Real Football’, our own midfield genius was introduced (and heckled throughout) by a ‘Sarf London Scouser’ masquerading as a compere!

Despite this Cesc was impeccably behaved for the whole event, enduring over two hours of press interviews with enthusiasm and a smile. (Unlike many ‘top footballers’ I have met at these events over the years)

He also posed happily for pictures, and signed shirts for all who asked. A thoroughly decent chap I thought and a credit to his family, Mr. Wenger and our club.

As ‘that sort of child’ I had identified myself to him early on as a long serving Arsenal fan and only here to get his signature and picture. Years in the Games industry meant I got the access to Cesc away from the journos and corporate crowd.

The Gooner had spun my head last month with the an article on page 4 of issue 187 entitled ‘Love Hurts’ in which it assumed that the media rumours he will leave before too much longer have substance. However, I left the launch feeling more in sync with the article ‘God from a Machine’ on page 9 of the same issue – in other words very tickled!

With no journos, in a secluded area – and him knowing I was a fan - I asked quietly (as he was signing my shirt) “Come on Cesc – one more year after this one… please!” There was no-one around and he didn’t need to answer.

Yet, he said IMMEDIATELY – with no prompting - also convincingly and quietly, “No, no… many more years!” I said, “I really hope so…” and the great one again replied, “Really – many more years. Things are good.”

Now having met him briefly, I can only say that the speed and enthusiasm of his responses only made me question my own sanity in buying into the media view that “a deal is done.”

Arsene knows!

Real Soccer is available from Gameloft on Mobile, PC and Gameboy.