Arsenal U21s are set to return to league action tomorrow afternoon when they face Crystal Palace away, but they have already suffered one major setback this week.
On Monday, Mehmet Ali’s side were knocked out of the U21 Premier League Cup as they suffered late heartbreak against Brentford B, conceding a penalty in stoppage time.
In truth, Brentford B deserved the victory as they dominated the first hour before Arsenal improved following a triple substitution that saw Myles Lewis-Skelly, Omari Benjamin and Ben Cottrell enter the fray.
Cottrell in particular was impressive, with the midfielder determined to make up for lost time following his latest injury setback.
However, Arsenal’s overall display was rather lacklustre and the U21s are in the midst of a woeful run of form that has seen them lose five of their last six games in all competitions.
A lack of goals has been a key factor behind that run, but that problem could soon be addressed, with striker Khayon Edwards in contention to be included in the squad to face Palace after several months out through injury.
Palace are fourth in Premier League 2, two places above Arsenal, so it is likely to be another tough task for the young Gunners.
A win is certainly needed to boost morale, though, and most importantly it is hoped that there will be an improved team performance, with some of the showings in recent games having been rather disappointing.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Jeorge, who in the u21s is/are closest to 1st team involvement?
-sincerely, a follower since 2011
Probably Cozier-Duberry, Walters and Sousa.