Arsenal U18s were eager to respond after their disappointing defeat to Crystal Palace and they certainly achieved that objective against West Bromwich Albion yesterday.
Jack Wilshere’s side ran out 4-1 winners, with Omari Benjamin hitting a hat-trick while Seb Ferdinand also got on the scoresheet.
One of Arsenal’s standout performers was Josh Nichols, with the 16-year-old’s display all the more commendable given that he was playing out of position in midfield.
Nichols is mainly a right-back who also has some experience of playing in the opposite full-back berth, but he was needed in midfield against West Brom with several players unavailable.
The Hale End product stepped up to the task and delivered an assured display, while his involvement in midfield will certainly help Nichols with his overall understanding of the game when he goes back to playing his usual inverted right-back role.
An impressive crosser, Nichols has been on the fringes of the Arsenal U21 squad in recent weeks, while he has made eleven appearances for the U18s in the league this season despite being one of the youngest players in the team.
Nichols will hope to become increasingly involved with the U21s next season, but he can be pleased with his progress so far this campaign.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Happy with the progress of all our young players but please forgive me as I ask for all your support in laughing with me at Man Utd! Hahahahahahaha
Well done Josh very promising.
But answer me this…How many teams are in the title race? 😂
It’s a two-horse one-pony race!