Butler-Oyedeji and Edwards’ experience can help Arsenal U21s

As two of the older players in the academy setup, attackers Nathan Butler-Oyedeji and Khayon Edwards were linked with moves away from the club in the summer transfer window.

However, both players remain at the club and seem set to be part of the Arsenal U21 squad for the first half of the season at least.

It isn’t an ideal situation for either player given that at this stage of their development (both are 21 years old) they should be playing senior football in some capacity.

Butler-Oyedeji has already had loan spells at Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town, while Edwards spent the second half of last season on loan at Leyton Orient.

For now, though, the fact that Butler-Oyedeji and Edwards have stayed at the club could benefit Arsenal’s U21 side, with the pair possessing a vast amount of experience at that level.

The two players have started the season in impressive form, to the extent that they were both nominated for the Premier League 2 player of the month award for August.

Edwards has led the line while Butler-Oyedeji, who is also capable of playing up front if required, has been deployed on the left wing and has been given the captain’s armband for the U21s.

Following the departure of Chido Martin Obi, Arsenal don’t have many other strikers around the U21 squad, although the likes of Andre Harriman-Annous and Dan Casey have impressed for the U18s.

Edwards’ presence in the team provides the U21s with a focal point, while Butler-Oyedeji offers pace and technical ability. 18-year-old Ismeal Kabia usually starts on the right wing to complete a dangerous attacking trio.

Both Butler-Oyedeji and Edwards will be looking to secure a move away in January and it seems highly unlikely that either of them will still be at the club next season. However, the U21s could well benefit from their experience and the duo could also be required for first-team training sessions or matchday squad callups at some stage.

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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird