The Arsenal first-team are about to commence a hectic schedule which will often see them play every three days but it is quite a contrasting situation for the club’s U21 side.
Arsenal U21s were last in action on November 11th (when they were knocked out of the EFL Trophy with a defeat to Cardiff) and won’t play again competitively until January 9th, when they will host West Bromwich Albion U21s in Premier League 2.
A Winter break has been introduced in Premier League 2 this year, although it does seem a somewhat strange decision as it will just lead to a busier schedule in the new year.
Arsenal only have 14 players who are part of the U21 squad and aren’t eligible for the U18s, while many of those are still able to feature for the U19s, who have two games remaining of what has so far been a disappointing UEFA Youth League group stage campaign.
The U21s were beaten by Lommel in a friendly this week and it is possible that behind closed doors matches could be arranged in the coming weeks, some of which may feature Gabriel Jesus as he nears a return from injury.
With a lack of competitive games there will also be more opportunities for U21 players to train with the first-team.
Seb Ferdinand and Josh Nichols were amongst those to train with the senior squad yesterday and the latter could be a candidate to depart the club either in January or the summer.
The club will also take this time to assess the progress of individuals and see if any players require loan spells.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird