With Omari Hutchinson and Kido Taylor-Hart ahead of him, Joel Ideho isn’t guaranteed a regular starting berth for Arsenal U23s this season, but the winger is determined to show that he is also a prospect with a very bright future.
In the absence of Hutchinson, Ideho was afforded an opportunity to impress last night as Arsenal U21s took on Swindon Town away in the group stages of the Papa John’s Trophy.
Ideho certainly seized his opportunity as he found the net with a composed finish and he will hope that he will be able to continue making an impact when called upon.
Previously at Ajax for a short spell, Ideho was one of a host of youngsters to join Arsenal last year. The Dutch prospect took some time to settle as he flitted between the U23 and U18 team but this season he is only eligible to play for the older age group.
The 18-year-old possesses much in the way of skill and flair, but he does need to improve his decision making and at times has to be more ruthless.
It is clear, though, that Ideho has a lot of potential and with Arsenal also participating in the U23 Premier League Cup this season he should get chances to prove his worth.
Ideho isn’t particularly close to the first-team squad at present but he has trained with them previously and will hope that he is afforded more opportunities to do so as he looks to increase his reputation further.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Hi Jeorge
Do you feel our current manager is giving enough opportunities to the youngsters in the academy?
I think he’s given chances to some players like Balogun but I can understand why he hasn’t played other youngsters as most of our best prospects are 17 and not ready to play regularly.
I know this post isn’t about him, but Charlie Patino seems an exciting prospect. He’s 17!!
From what I’ve seen of him, I would be really really surprised if he wasn’t a future star for us in a couple of seasons.
Careful, we said the same about Zelalem!