The international break often provides opportunities for academy players and that has certainly been the case this week.
With a host of senior players away representing their countries, many of Arsenal’s talented youngsters have been called upon in training to join the likes of Raheem Sterling, Neto and Leandro Trossard.
On Tuesday Arsenal U21s were in action against Leyton Orient in the EFL Trophy, which meant that a group of U16 players were used in first-team training. This included midfielder Teshaun Murisa, who has been identified as a very talented player.
The following day, some members of the U18 squad and those who had been on the bench for the U21s against Orient featured in first-team training. Versatile attacker Andre Harriman-Annous was amongst those involved, while tall midfielder Ife Ibrahim (who is also capable of playing at right-back) featured prominently.
Defenders Max Kuczynski and Josh Ogunnaike were also involved as they were tasked with attempting to stop the first-team attackers.
U21s goalkeeper Alexei Rojas is continuing to train with the first-team and it will be interesting to see what the club’s plans are for the 18-year-old’s long-term development.
Meanwhile, some of Arsenal’s talented youngsters have been making an impact on the international stage at youth level.
Ethan Nwaneri scored for England U19s against Italy, with Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ayden Heaven also featuring in that game.
In addition, 14-year-old Max Dowman netted a penalty for England U17s against Mexico as he continues to make excellent progress.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
