Amario Cozier-Duberry makes major impact for Arsenal U23s

Amario Cozier-Duberry has only made a handful of appearances for Arsenal at U18 level and above but every time the prospect takes to the pitch he usually does something memorable.

Capable of playing out wide or as an attacking midfielder, the 16-year-old broke into the U18 squad towards the end of last season and demonstrated that he is adept at both finding the net himself and creating chances for others with regularity.

With a host of regular U23 players unavailable, Cozier-Duberry was one of many U18s drafted into the U23 squad for the opening pre-season friendly against Bromley this week, and, somewhat inevitably, he seized his opportunity.

It was a disappointing night overall for Arsenal, who were beaten 3-1 in Ryan Garry’s first game in charge, but Cozier-Duberry departed the ground with his reputation enhanced as he scored an impressive goal and produced an encouraging all round display.

Despite being diminutive in stature the prospect is capable of holding off opponents, while he uses his trickery to weave his way past defenders.

An England U16 international, Cozier-Duberry is initially set to go into Arsenal’s U18 squad for the upcoming campaign. Given the way that he is progressing, further outings at U23 level won’t be too far away.

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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird