There was a significant moment for Arsenal youngster Harrison Dudziak at the weekend as he made his first appearance in senior football.
The 19-year-old midfielder has joined National League side Braintree Town on an initial one-month loan and he produced an impressive performance in a goalless draw against Hartlepool.
With Dudziak out on loan opportunities are likely to open up for other youngsters to impress in Arsenal’s U21 squad, including the likes of Maalik Hashi, Teshaun Murisa and Alex Marciniak.
Theo Julienne is another prospect who could potentially be a beneficiary of Dudziak’s temporary move.
Although he also has experience of playing at right-back, Julienne has primarily operated in midfield for Arsenal U18s this season and possesses both attacking and defensive qualities.
The 17-year-old already has a professional contract but has played just 20 minutes in Premier League 2 so far this season, although he has also been involved in the EFL Trophy.
That could soon be set to change, with Arsenal U21s due to return to action next month following their winter break.
Getting further opportunities at U21 level could prove to be hugely beneficial for Julienne’s development, especially given that he is set to become a full time member of the squad at that level next season.
Julienne can play as the deepest midfielder but he is most commonly deployed in a slightly more advanced position that is somewhat similar to the one that Declan Rice plays in for the first team.
Traditionally there are often frequent changes to the U21 squad after January and Julienne will aim to be one of the players who steps up.
—
Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird