Arsenal's summer signing Kyle Bartley says he's settled well since his move from Bolton Wanderers.
"It was no problem joining up with the lads. I went on a pre-season tour of Italy with them and got on really well so that built our relationships up.
"Paul Rodgers has been excellent for me since I arrived. He has helped no end by talking and always encouraging me. [On Monday night] he was the captain and was excellent out there again. He instructed me both on and off the field so I have to say a big thank you to him for that."
The imposing centre-back made his Reserve team bow in Monday night's defeat by Fulham. The result was less favourable but Bartley was philosophical in his reflection.
"Of course it was a great experience tonight," he said. "Neil [Banfield] has given me my chance and although we have been beaten it's all about developing at the end of the day.
"They had a strong, nippy bunch of players for them, as well as having Jimmy Bullard out there. It was certainly going to be tough.
"Hopefully I can continue to be involved, looking especially at Friday's match with Burnley in the Youth Cup, and get more Reserve appearances under my belt.
"Title-chasing is a definite possibility with these lads. Neil and Steve Bould have asked us to go for all three - the Academy League, Reserve title and the FA Youth Cup. I want to be able to help with all of them."
