Sometimes it becomes clear that a player needs to test himself at a higher level in order to further his development.
That certainly seems to be the case with Chido Obi-Martin, with the striker having been incredibly impressive in front of goal for Arsenal’s U18 side of late.
Obi-Martin is already playing above his age group (he is technically still an U16 player), but he is now making a major impact for the U18s. Remarkably, across his last five games for the U18s he has scored 16 goals. This has included scoring four goals in one game on three separate occasions.
In total, Obi-Martin has netted 20 goals in 14 league matches for the U18s this campaign and he is tormenting opponents with his clinical nature in front of goal.
The 16-year-old has already featured fleetingly for Arsenal at U21 level as he made two substitute appearances earlier this season.
However, perhaps the time has now come for him to step up to the U21s on a more regular basis. There aren’t many games remaining for the second-string this season, with the play-offs rapidly approaching, but there could still be some opportunities for Obi-Martin to get playing time, perhaps as a substitute.
Nathan Butler-Oyedeji, who has previously had loan spells at Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town, is currently the main striker for Arsenal’s U21 side.
However, at the age of 21, Butler-Oyedeji could well secure a permanent move away from the club in the summer. There are other strikers out on loan, such as Khayon Edwards, Tyreece John-Jules, Mika Biereth and Billy Vigar, but playing U21 football may not be the best thing for their development next season.
Therefore, an opportunity could open up for Obi-Martin next campaign to establish himself as the main striker for the U21s, even though he will only be a first year scholar. With his height, finishing ability and technique, he is very difficult for defenders to deal with and it will be intriguing to see how much of an impact he can make playing at a higher level.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Is he quick and/or a good dribbler? What modern striker does he most resemble?
He’s a big burly black lad about a foot bigger than the rest of the players.
👎 Soup Dragon.
You didn’t need to describe him like that.
The child’s race had nothing to do with his footballing ability
Is that a Jedi name he has. I hope he’s a Jedi.