Arsenal U18s made it through to the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup last night with a 4-1 win away to Mansfield Town.
Having only just managed to overcome Hertford Town at this stage of the competition last season Arsenal knew that they couldn’t take anything for granted against Mansfield.
It was a professional performance from the young Gunners, with captain Callan Hamill opening the scoring before Maalik Hashi netted a penalty.
Louis Zecevic John, who recently returned from his latest injury setback, made it 3-0 to Arsenal but Mansfield then got a goal back through Mace Oldershaw.
Brando Bailey-Joseph then managed to restore Arsenal’s three-goal lead as he made it 4-1.
Arsenal have been drawn to face Manchester City away in the fourth round, which is undoubtedly one of the most challenging ties possible.
City won the Youth Cup in 2024 before losing to Aston Villa in the final last season.
However, it is anticipated that by the time that game takes place next month Arsenal could have a much deeper squad to choose from at U18 level.
For yesterday’s game Arsenal were missing a host of eligible players, with Max Dowman and Andre Harriman-Annous both out injured while Marli Salmon and Josiah King were suspended and Ife Ibrahim was also missing.
It seems likely that Arsenal will need the vast majority of those players to be available if they are to overcome a very strong City side.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird