Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen enjoys a great reputation at former club Ajax.

His nights off were not spent in nightclubs, but rather with team-mates watching games from around Europe or football DVDs.

Such dedication began in the youth ranks of Belgian side Germinal Beerschot before he joined Ajax's academy at 15. And Vermaelen's success at Arsenal has come as no surprise to Urbain Haesaert, the man behind his early football education.

"He is intelligent, has great technique and is a very coachable player," said Haesaert, who is now Ajax's chief scout in Belgium, to the Daily Mail.

"Honestly, with a player like Thomas you don't know where his limits are. He jumps like a spring, he has a terrific long pass, anticipates well. It will be a hell of a job to find a player with his qualities at that age in Europe."

Haesaert also praises Vermaelen's character.

"He does not seek publicity. Thomas is very self-critical. He is the type who does not get carried away when he is doing well. He will never be associated with nightlife, drugs or anything like that. He is too much of a pro."