As Arsenal U21s faced Sunderland on Monday night, coach Max Porter found himself without a host of players due to youth internationals.
Options were especially short in defence, which presented an opportunity for centre-back Sam Chapman, 18, to make his U21s debut.
Chapman has gained plenty of experience at U18 level over the past couple of seasons after progressing from the Hale End academy.
The youngster is strong physically and has good leadership skills but is still looking to develop his all-round game.
With his scholarship contract set to expire in the summer, it remains to be seen whether Chapman will be offered an extended stay and the opportunity to sign a professional contract with the club.
Regardless of what transpires in that regard, making his debut for the U21s can still be seen as a step forwards in terms of his overall development.
Last season Chapman was an unused substitute for the U21s against Fulham and he also got some opportunities to impress for the second-string in pre-season last year.
However, this was his first taste of competitive action and he will undoubtedly have learned a lot from the experience.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird