Sam Greenwood completed his permanent switch to Leeds yesterday, in what is certainly seen as a blow to the Arsenal academy.
As ever, though, a departure opens the door for somebody else and the individual who could benefit most from this is Luke Plange.
A hard-working forward, Plange signed scholarship terms last year and gave a good account of himself during his first year as a scholar as he scored three goals in nine games while mainly featuring as a substitute. He also featured in the FA Youth Cup and made the bench for the U23s.
There is a considerable amount of uncertainty regarding who will be the first-choice striker for Arsenal U23s this season. Folarin Balogun’s future is still unresolved, while Tyreece John-Jules featured against MK Dons but there is a possibility that he could be sent out on loan again.
That would leave Plange with an excellent chance of being involved, although there is a possibility that Per Mertesacker may look to bring in another free agent signing to fill the gap.
Plange, though, will be seeking to prove that he deserves opportunities. The 17 year old loves to shoot from distance and works very hard so he could well get a chance to shine.
This is a very important season for Plange in any case as he looks to earn a professional contract at the club, but circumstances could dictate that he is thrown into the limelight for the U23s much quicker than was previously anticipated.
—
Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Thanks Jorge, insightful as always!
Still gutted to hear that Greenwood Haas left. He seems to be a very technical player and I believe this is where the English game has been heading for some time.