Over the past week, at various points, Zech Medley has featured at centre-back, left-back and on the left wing for Arsenal U23s.
Given that earlier in the campaign he was finding game time difficult to come by, Medley will simply be grateful that he is playing, and the 19-year-old has approached each of the different challenges that he has faced in a professional manner.
Medley scored a brace as the U23s beat Monaco 4-3 in an enthralling Premier League International Cup clash this week, although he wasn’t at his sharpest defensively.
With Daniel Ballard back from a longterm injury, the competition for places has increased for the U23s, although Medley’s ability to slot in at left-back should ensure that he will continue to get chances to impress.
It was rather surprising that Medley wasn’t sent out on loan in January, but the expectation is that he will head out on temporary transfer next season to gain valuable experience of first-team football.
Last season Medley found himself on the periphery of the first-team squad, making three appearances under Unai Emery and also being named on the bench in the Premier League.
Since then he has fallen down the pecking order somewhat, and the development of Harry Clarke hasn’t helped his cause.
Medley’s hopes of succeeding at Arsenal aren’t over, but it is anticipated that next season will be crucial for his development.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
