Ainsley Maitland-Niles was in the news recently because of some rather unsavoury incidents involving his mother, but the youngster could soon be making headlines in a more positive light if he continues to progress.
A player who was previously usually deployed on the right wing, Arsenal experimented with playing Maitland-Niles in central-midfield in some games last season, but this campaign the England youth international has been used almost exclusively in that position and he has certainly had a memorable campaign.
When the first-team squad was heavily affected by a spate of injuries around Christmas time, Maitland-Niles found himself involved in the senior set-up, as he featured as a substitute in the Premier League, FA Cup and the Champions League, whilst also making the bench for other fixtures.
With the bulk of the squad now having returned to full fitness, Maitland-Niles hasn’t been called upon for the first-team since New Year’s Day, and his form has dipped a little since his return to the U21s. It is worth remembering, though, that he is a player who was still eligible for the U18s this season but has instead gained some vital experience of playing on a much bigger stage.
A skilful player who likes to shoot from distance, Maitland-Niles is a slick passer of the ball, although his tackling does still require some work. Next season he will hope to feature in the one major English domestic competition he is yet to participate in- the Capital One Cup- and he could experience his first loan spell later in the campaign.
A hard-working and determined individual, Maitland-Niles doesn’t seem to be the type of player who will let off the field distractions prevent him from succeeding. He has risen through the ranks at Arsenal and is highly regarded by Arsene Wenger, who has invited the 17-year-old to train with the first-team on many occasions.
Next season should be another interesting one for the Hale End product and the chances are that he will find his name in the newspapers again very soon, but this time for the right reasons.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
I hope the Duchess doesn’t put him off. The Tories won the election but I hope that doesn’t encourage her to slap people around.
Damn man yeah, tory supporters are like Chelsea fans: I’ve met only a couple in real life but there seem to be so many more it seems.
It’s encouraging to see how Wenger is always keen on giving several youth players the chance of playing with the big boys even though our youth teams haven’t been playing well. Meanwhile Chelseas youth team have won several trophies over the years and yet hardly anyone is given the chance of playing with the first team.
Keep believing in the youth and keep believing in “internal solution”!
If you haven’t seen much of him there’s a good video on youtube with some of his highlights, has a very good long shot. Incredible to be so involved with the first team squad at his age. Awesome name too.
The Arsenal Gent won’t have to think of an alternative – just like the Ox
Great long shot, loves the crossbar
Give the lad a contract extension because of his name if for nothing else..
He is very talented player, have been following him for some time now. He has the potential to become a very great player all depends on him
I would say his mother could do with some counselling, where’s Stewart Robsons therapist!!
She attacked Dick Law??
Bloody hell!
Keep growing Niles
She attacked dick law? What a disgrace and I bet his dip in form coincided with the embarrassment he felt after his mothers stupidity!!!
Another central midfielder? Venga OUT!