Aaron Ramsey is confident Arsenal's youngsters are capable of winning the Carling Cup as he prepares for his first start of the season.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has treated the competition as a means to blood his young talent in recent seasons and is set to continue with that policy in Tuesday's third-round tie at home to West Brom.

Ramsey, who started three matches in the Carling Cup last term, has been pencilled in to face West Brom and believes the Gunners can go all the way to Wembley.

"Of course it is a competition we can win, even if the manager fields a young team," said Ramsey. "We can win any competition.

"No matter what the side is, we have the same mentality to win every game and to win every competition if we can."

Ramsey added: "It is good that the manager uses the competition to give some youngsters a chance and it is a good opportunity for us to show what we can do.

"It gives us experience and helps us to get used to the surroundings and big crowds."

Settled

The Wales international has made six appearances as a substitute so far this season and feels he has improved as a player since his 2008 move from Cardiff City.

"My awareness is better and my touch has improved," he said.

"I don't give the ball away as much as I used to, but all of that comes with experience and, hopefully I can continue improving and start playing league games as well."

Ramsey added: "To come here from Cardiff was a big step up in terms of everything.

"I am settled now and feel like one of the lads. I am not a kid in the dressing room anymore, I really feel part of it.

"I want to play every game and put pressure on the manager. I don't just want to be the guy who starts in the Carling Cup.

"I am still only 18, but I am like every other player - I want to start every game and do well for Arsenal."