Arsenal U23s were in Premier League International Cup action last night as they beat Dinamo Zagreb 3-2.
It was an enthralling encounter, with Tyreece John-Jules scoring a brace, while James Olayinka also found the net and Folarin Balogun missed a penalty.
John-Jules’ late winner ensured that Arsenal have taken maximum points in this competition so far going into their final group game against Leicester City next month.
Defender Mark McGuinness, who has been used sparingly this season, produced a composed performance at the heart of the defence, which suggests that he is worthy of further game time.
Winger Nathan Tormey also caught the eye in the second half as he made some dangerous runs.
The U18s, meanwhile, get their FA Youth Cup campaign underway tonight with an away game against Cheltenham Town. The winners of that clash will host Southampton in the fourth round.
Goalkeeper Karl Hein is eligible to play at that level but won’t be in action given that he featured for the U23s last night.
Midfielder Ben Cottrell, however, was left out of the U23 side, which suggests that he will be in action for Ken Gillard’s team.
The U18s may have lacked consistency in the league this season, but there are still some talented players in this side, such as defender Mazeed Ogungbo and Sam Greenwood, meaning Arsenal should have enough quality to prevail.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
I feel like his nickname should be ‘The Judge’.
Quite excited by him as a prospect. Feels like he’s constantly improving and a slow burner, which often makes a better player in the end.
He’s The Kitten.