Last night was a hugely significant occasion in the career of Charles Sagoe Jr, with the winger making his competitive senior debut for Arsenal against Brentford.
The 19-year-old’s progression has been somewhat similar to that of Alex Iwobi in that he initially had to be patient for opportunities at youth level. However, since the start of last season Sagoe Jr has really stepped up and has proceeded to establish himself as a key player on the left wing for the U21s.
Although he wasn’t heavily involved against Brentford, it was still an excellent experience for Sagoe Jr and it was pleasing to see Mikel Arteta call upon an academy player to start the game, something which hasn’t happened too often in recent years.
Arsenal also named Reuell Walters, Amario Cozier-Duberry and James Sweet on the bench, with the latter, a hard-working right-back, receiving his first callup to the squad.
There are plenty of other prospects waiting in the wings too and it is hoped that more players will be afforded opportunities at some stage.
Arsenal have been drawn away to West Ham in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup, which may not be the easiest location to give chances to youngsters. However, if, as was the case last night, some senior players are missing due to injury then it may well be the case that some academy players are called upon.
In addition, the Champions League could represent an opportunity for some youngsters to get on the bench given that 12 substitutes can be named in that competition. One problem, however, is that in the group stages the U19s are scheduled to play on the same day as the first-team on each occasion.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Goodluck Sagoe! Whatever happens you have done more than many do in their professional life and that’s play for The Arsenal. Onwards and Upwards.
Jeorge, when did Sagoe get ahead of Cozier Duberry in the pecking order? Would love to know your point of view as I thought C-D was a real star in the making, is it because Sagoe plays on the left and C-D plays on the right? Was hoping to see Walters too but putting a youngster in defence may be a stretch too far for Arteta.
I think it has only happened very recently as Sagoe Jr has started the season in slightly better form for the U21s.
I am glad we are giving the youngsters a chance, but to be honest I was not too impressed with his performance overall. I feel he could have done much more of the ball. He will learn with time and I wish him the best, but if he is the best young prospect we have coming up I would be very worried. Even Ben White was hesitant to pass the ball to him in the second half. Everything was going from the left, and when Brentford attacked his tracking back and getting physical was just not good enough. I know… Read more »
He gives me the Quincy-Owusu Obeye vibes. The winger was prolific at some point, but maybe the big stage (having to play with Henry et al) was too spellbinding for him