Arsenal U19s endured a frustrating 1-0 defeat at home to Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Youth League this week but it was still a notable occasion for Brando Bailey-Joseph.
The 16-year-old is still a schoolboy this season but he has been involved with the U18s and has shown that he is capable of making an impact at that level.
With other players unavailable, Bailey-Joseph was named in the U19s squad against Shakhtar and was brought on as Max Porter’s side looked to get an equaliser.
Although Arsenal were ultimately unable to find the net, Bailey-Joseph, a winger who usually plays on the left flank, still gave a good account of himself with his directness and dangerous crosses.
The England youth international will be hopeful that he will soon get further chances for the older age groups as he looks to continue his rapid development.
Arsenal will aim to ensure that Bailey-Joseph will be part of next season’s scholarship intake, with the youngster having been identified as a player with a bright future who could eventually challenge for a place in the first-team squad.
Bailey-Joseph will now be aiming to continue to impress for the U18s and take further steps forward in his development.
—
Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com
Follow him on Twitter @jeorge_bird
Joseph, Jesus and the virgin Mari
He’s destined for a professional career! All I look for is the hyphen!