Some of Amario Cozier-Duberry’s early performances for Arsenal at youth level came as an attacking midfielder and last night the youngster provided a reminder of the impact that he can make when deployed in that position.
The 18-year-old has carved out a reputation as one of Arsenal’s standout young prospects from his displays as a winger, mainly on the right flank.
Cozier-Duberry started out wide for the U21s against Manchester City last night but he moved into midfield in the second half and caught the eye as he scored twice and made some driving runs forward.
It is likely that Cozier-Duberry will continue to mainly be used as a winger, but the fact that he can operate well in midfield adds another string to his bow and could lead to him getting more opportunities when he eventually makes the step up to senior football, whether at Arsenal or elsewhere.
There was a feeling that Cozier-Duberry should perhaps have gone on loan in the summer but that scenario may well happen in January, especially as it is unlikely that he will get many senior appearances this season if he remains at Arsenal.
Last season Cozier-Duberry was arguably the standout performer for the U21s but he started this campaign a little slowly by his very high standards.
Recently, however, he has clicked into gear, as evidenced by the fact that he has scored a brace in each of his last two games. Now the focus is on the UEFA Youth League as Arsenal U19s look to somehow get out of their group despite losing their first three fixtures.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
He reminded me of a young Saka, fearless, confident, swivel hips, ability to lose defenders with a shoulder feint and a clean ball striker. Would have loved to see him get time on the right wing as a sub in the League Cup against West Ham. I understand we have a bigger squad and we have first team players that need a run out but I have historically enjoyed the cup games more when sprinkled with academy players. He’s a difference maker.
I still enjoy reading this stuff, i do, but it’s feeling less and less connected to the reality of our first team since Arteta took over, since none of these players can even get a bench appearance in the league Cup, nor do any of them seem remotely likely to feature for the first team any time soon… I wish someone would really sit down with Arteta and maybe Per too and get a bit more solid info about how they see the Academy these days and what is being envisioned for it and the players there, if there’s any… Read more »