On a day on which there was much focus on other schoolboys, Kyran Thompson provided another reminder of the very encouraging progress that he is making at Arsenal.
Since joining from West Ham’s academy early last season Thompson has continued to develop very well and has been a key figure at U18 level this season despite technically being an U16 player.
Thompson has also trained with the first-team and made his debut for Arsenal U21s, while he recently scored a fine goal for England U17s against USA.
The 16-year-old is capable of operating in various midfield and attacking positions but of late there seems to have been a conscious effort to give him more game time as a striker.
With a tall frame and impressive technique, Thompson certainly seems to suit the position and his work off the ball is very much akin to what Mikel Arteta demands from his forwards.
Yesterday Thompson chalked off another milestone as he got his first goal in the Youth League, becoming Arsenal’s second ever youngest scorer in the competition behind Max Dowman.
Thompson had earlier hit the crossbar with a header and seemed to especially determined to find the net.
The highly rated prospect will hope to get more opportunities with the U21s in the second half of the season and could step up to be a regular at that level next campaign.
It is anticipated that Thompson will sign scholarship terms next summer and he will be eligible for a professional contract shortly afterwards.