Since he signed scholarship terms ahead of last season there has been much frustration for Billy Vigar.
Last season the striker was restricted to just six appearances for Arsenal U18s, with injury disrupting his development.
It has been a similar story of disappointment in the early stages of this campaign, as, prior to yesterday, Vigar hadn’t played at all after suffering another injury.
However, the 18-year-old made up for lost time yesterday as he emerged off the bench to score a dramatic late equaliser for Arsenal U18s in their 2-2 draw against West Ham United.
Arsenal were trailing 2-0 at half time before an impressive strike from Charles Sagoe Jr reduced the deficit.
It looked as if Dan Micciche’s side were going to fall to a defeat, but Vigar intervened with a header in the 92nd minute to salvage a point for the young Gunners.
There is still much work for Vigar to do as he looks to earn a professional contract ahead of next season, but this is certainly a step in the right direction.
Vigar possesses impressive technical ability and will now hope for further opportunities to impress at U18 level.
Dislodging the prolific Khayon Edwards as the U18s’ main striker could prove to a difficult task for Vigar, but it is possible that the pair could play alongside each other.
There are plenty of other talented young forwards in the U18s setup, with Amani Richards, Kaleel Green and Henry Timi Davies among those still waiting for a sustained chance to prove their worth.
Now they will face further competition, with Vigar demonstrating that he is capable of making an impact for the U18s.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Vigar’s vigour
Read that as Vicar