Although not the biggest fan base on Facebook (4.1m compared to Manchester Utd’d 9.25m), Arsenal have embraced the platform in new innovative ways that catch the eye.

Two things that caught my eye when looking at their page was 1) they have taken the opportunity to use the new Facebook page layout – which looks great – and 2) they’re ‘welcome’ page.

We have seen a few different methods of businesses and teams using this landing page over the past few months. With Liverpool using a Steven Gerrard picture to point to the ‘Like’ button to a plug for an upcoming tour or kit launch from Manchester Utd.

So what makes Arsenal’s page so different?

Well they have used this opportunity to bring the players into the focus rather than just doing what other clubs have done. Here they have incorporated the function that you can ‘like’ players from within the page.

This has the added benefit of appearing in supporters’ news streams and extending the reach of the club name and brings in an unexpected competition between the players. We all know there is quite a lot of ego involved in the game and I am sure the players keep an eye out to see how many likes they have and who is ahead/behind them in the mini league.

It is visually appealing and something that me, as a non-Arsenal fan, find interesting and would probably use to tell me friends who I like (if it was on my own teams page). I think Fabregas will be the eventual winner but it is a bit of fun that will help the club brand.

There are other features on the site I like with them, as with Liverpool, giving the online fan the opportunity to buy merchandise/kit without having to look it up separately. I’m a believer in having your goods/services available to buy on platforms your consumers are using, something many businesses miss out on even now.

I’m sure in 2011 we will see lots more innovation and hopefully sport will lead the way.