With just one game into the new Premier League campaign, International friendlies already become the main talking point of the week with several Arsenal players starring for their respective countries.

Here at Gooner Talk, we look to bring you the latest updates and results on how the Arsenal players are doing for their countries with a brief summary of how they got on.

The following players were in action tonight:

Theo Walcott - England v Czech Republic
Nicklas Bendtner - Denmark v Spain
Johan Djourou - Switzerland v Cyprus
Robin van Persie - Russia v Netherlands

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Arsenal have secured the signature of Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre for a fee rumoured to be in the region of £750,000.

The 31-year-old has played over 249 games for the Premier League champions and has surprising swapped Manchester for north London.

Silvestre was reportedly undergoing a medical at bitter neighbours Man City last night when his agent phoned him to say that Arsenal had an interest in him.

According to The Sun, Mikaël immediately abandoned the medical and hurtled down the M1 to meet Gunners boss Wenger and discuss terms.

Speaking on his move to the club, the Frenchman said:

“I’ve spent a large part of my career at United, the last nine years, and I’ll remember that time fondly but feel I’m ready for a new challenge. Arsenal is known for playing technical and skilful football, and has a young but experienced squad. I’m really excited about this next stage of my career, hopefully playing my part in helping the Club to new successes.”

What is also surprising, is the fact that Wenger has given Silvestre a 2-year deal, going against his usual 1-year to over 30’s policy.

Not only will the signing of Silvestre bolster Arsene Wenger’s defensive options, but it should also provide experienced cover for fellow countryman Gaël Clichy.

Mikael will wear Pascal Cygan’s old number 18 shirt.

Arsenal skipper William Gallas has been appointed France vice-captain by Les Bleus boss Raymond Domenech ahead of this evening’s game against Sweden.

Former Gunners’ striker Thierry Henry has been made captain in a bid to lift the team after their flop at Euro 2008.

France were criticised for an unadventurous style of play and a reclusive lifestyle during Euro 2008, where they took only one point from three games, scoring one goal.

Henry has already worn the armband for France in previous matches, notably during the summers Championships when Patrick Vieira was out through injury.

“It is a great responsibility. I have a duty. There is a new generation but we always need someone to lead the way. I have a lot of experience at the highest level. I know this new generation very well, I have always felt young in my mind,” he said.

“It is a challenge. It does not scare me.” As for the task in hand after France’s failure at Euro 2008, the ex-Gunners legend enthused: “It will not be easy but it is our job to win back everyone’s hearts.”

Gooner Talk will give you updates of all the players on International duty this evening with the likes of Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna, Philippe Senderos and Johan Djourou in action for their respective countries.

Below are the Arsenal players involved in tonights friendlies and what teams they are playing for and against:

England: Theo Walcott - England v Czech Republic
Denmark: Nicklas Bendtner - Denmark v Spain
Switzerland: Johan Djourou - Switzerland v Cyprus
Netherlands: Robin van Persie - Russia v Netherlands

Arsenal have been linked with a whole host of players throughout the summer but one of the most unlikely names to have been mentioned is Manchester United’s defender Mikaël Silvestre.

The 31-year-old has played over 249 games for the Premier League and Champions League winners and the media have today linked him with a move to the club.

Silvestre was reportedly undergoing a medical at bitter neighbours Man City when his agent phoned him to say that Arsenal had an interest in him.

According to unreliable British newspaper The Sun, Mikaël immediately abandoned the medical and hurtled down the M1 to meet Gunners boss Wenger and discuss terms.

Would Arsene Wenger really go for an injury-prone defender who’s pay packet is expected to be as high as £50k? Or maybe somebody saw Gunners’ target Gokhan Inler go into Arsenal’s London Colney training ground and mistook him for lookalike Silvestre?!

We want your views on this crazy rumour!

Arsenal have been linked with a whole host of players throughout the summer but one of the most unlikely names to have been mentioned is Manchester United’s defender Mikaël Silvestre.

The 31-year-old has played over 249 games for the Premier League and Champions League winners and the media have today linked him with a move to the club.

Silvestre was reportedly undergoing a medical at bitter neighbours Man City when his agent phoned him to say that Arsenal had an interest in him.

According to unreliable British newspaper The Sun, Mikaël immediately abandoned the medical and hurtled down the M1 to meet Gunners boss Wenger and discuss terms.

Would Arsene Wenger really go for an injury-prone defender who’s pay packet is expected to be as high as £50k? Or maybe somebody saw Gunners’ target Gokhan Inler go into Arsenal’s London Colney training ground and mistook him for lookalike Silvestre?!

We want your views on this crazy rumour!