Abdisalam Ibrahim is hoping that veteran Patrick Vieira makes his Blues debut at Hull on Saturday because the World Cup winner's appearance will bring his dream a step closer.

Somali-born Abdi grew up in Norway idolising the formidable French midfielder, a world and European champion with his country as well as one of Arsenal's "Invincibles" in 2003-04.

Now the ambitious 18-year-old rookie, who shone on his debut in the FA Cup at Scunthorpe last month, aims to link up with the fit-again grandmaster himself out on the pitch this season.

Ibrahim said: "Patrick Vieira is a fantastic player - he is still a fantastic player. He's won so many trophies and honours throughout his career, and he's a legend at Arsenal.

"I can learn so much from him. I really want to train regularly with him - and it would be a dream come true for me to play alongside him in midfield for City one day. Yes, I would be walking on air that day!

"Patrick spoke to me after my debut in the Scunthorpe game and he told me I had played really well. I was really, really over the moon to hear Patrick Vieira saying that to me."

Academy graduate Abdi's fellow youngster Greg Cunningham came off the bench at Glanford Park to make his senior debut, and both followed in the footsteps of young defender Dedryck Boyata.

Ibrahim added: "Roberto Mancini has shown us that he believes if you're good enough, you're old enough. Now I want to play more games and be a part of what is happening at this club."