Adebayor signed memorabilia: 6 products

When Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger wanted a striker to add power, excitement and deadly finishing to his pulsating attacking line he looked at just one man, Emmanuel Adebayor. The tall Togolese international took little time in making the sort of impact at the Emirates stadium that has marked him as a cult figure for Gunners' fans. Just 21 minutes into his debut against Birmingham in February 2006 he scored the first of Arsenal's goals in a 2-0 win.

Adebayor finished his first season with four goals in 10 games for Arsenal and he has since established himself as one of the most dangerous attacking forces in the Premiership. He further assured his status as a fans' favourite by scoring in three separate matches against north London rivals Tottenham during the 2007-08 season, including two in a 3-1 victory. He has just recently proved his commitment to the Arsenal shirt by signing a long-term contract to stay at the Emirates.

At just 14 he was spotted at a football training camp in his home town of Lome by scouts from French side Metz. He burst onto the French football scene in his second season at the club, scoring 17 times in 35 matches and attracting the attention of Monaco. He signed for Les Rouge et Blanc in 2003 and helped them to the Champions League final, where they lost to Porto. His outstanding performances in France brought him into the spotlight and convinced Arsene Wenger that Adebayor was the man to replace the legendary Thierry Henry in leading the Gunners' line.

Adebayor was called up for the Togo national team for the 2006 African Cup of Nations and his 11 goals in helping Togo qualify for that summer's World Cup was a record for any African player. His outstanding contribution has been recognised by two nominations for African Player of the Year. Adebayor is a lethal finisher, but goals tell only part of his story. His pace and ability to put defenders under pressure mark him out as the complete forward and among Europe's finest.