Reuell Walters is only 16 years old but the youngster is gaining plenty of experience playing for Arsenal U23s.
Walters joined the Gunners midway through last season and captained the U18s while he was still a schoolboy.
Naturally a right-back, he has slotted in well as a right wing-back and has also been used as a centre-back in a back three.
The prospect reads the game very well and possesses impressive technique.
This week The Guardian named Walters as Arsenal’s standout first-year scholar, and that is certainly some achievement given the qualities of Amario Cozier-Duberry and Amani Richards (even though the latter has been used sparingly so far this season).
An injury to Brooke Norton-Cuffy opened the door for Walters at U23 level and he has seized his opportunity, demonstrating to coach Kevin Betsy that he is adaptable and can cope under pressure.
Previously part of Tottenham Hotspur’s academy, Walters had been set to join Manchester United before an administrative error prevented the deal from taking place.
Walters spent a period out of academy football but his move to Arsenal came at the right time and he has now progressed perhaps quicker than expected. It will be intriguing to see what the next steps are in his development.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Exciting we got him. 16 y/o and holding down a place in the U23 team bodes well.