Reuell Walters has been an unused substitute in each of the first-team’s last five Premier League games and the young defender has also been heavily involved in senior training sessions in the continued absence of William Saliba.
Walters’ involvement with the first-team squad has meant that he has been unavailable for the U21s for recent games and that, in turn, has enabled James Sweet to enjoy a run of games at that level.
Sweet started the season by featuring prominently for the U21s while Walters was out injured but then suffered an injury himself that kept him sidelined from October until early March.
The Welsh youth international has now started the last four games for the U21s, mainly being deployed at right-back. A good reader of the game, he is often praised by the coaching staff for his attitude and determination.
On Friday night Sweet scored a late equaliser as Arsenal U21s salvaged a draw against Fulham, with that point ensuring that they will continue to compete in the top tier of Premier League 2 next season.
Sweet previously played in midfield and as a winger but he is now mainly seen as a right-back and relishes the opportunity to make the most of his attacking qualities when the opportunity arises.
The 19-year-old still has some improvements to make but this run in the side will surely be hugely beneficial for him.
With Walters likely to step to first-team football in some capacity next season (perhaps on loan), Sweet could continue to play regularly for the U21s in the first half of the campaign at least.
There have been some difficult moments for Sweet this season, especially on the fitness front, but he is finishing 2022-23 in a positive manner.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Sounds like James is a tangfastic footballer.
Sounds like two very good young players.
I hope they both make it.