In terms of results it has been an excellent start to the season for Arsenal U18s, with Adam Birchall’s team having won three and drawn one of their opening four league matches, while they also registered a victory in the Premier League Cup.
Many of the performances have also been of a high standard but that wasn’t especially the case during the 1-1 draw at home to Chelsea yesterday, with Arsenal lacking their usual flair.
Ife Ibrahim and Josiah King weren’t involved in the game, while Brando Bailey-Joseph only featured as a substitute, with the expectation being that the trio will have a part to play when the U19s commence their UEFA Youth League campaign away to Athletic Bilbao next week.
Some players also had to be used out of position against Chelsea, with Sam Chapman (usually a centre-back) playing at left-back, while Josh Ogunnaike (usually a left-back) was deployed as a left winger.
There appeared to be a lack of balance in the team but perhaps the biggest factor in that regard was the absence of Alex Marciniak, who is currently on international duty with Wales U18s.
A creative player who is very skilful, Marciniak impressed for Arsenal U21s in pre-season and has started the campaign well for the U18s, registering a goal and an assist against Birmingham City.
Capable of playing as an attacking midfielder or a left winger, Marciniak has now established himself as a key figure in the team and his eventual return should give the side a boost.
Captain Callan Hamill scored Arsenal’s goal yesterday with a header after Chelsea had opened the scoring through Chizaram Ezenwata.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird