As the Arsenal first-team prepare for a hugely important game against Manchester City, the Gunners’ U21 side have also discovered that they are also set to face City in a crucial clash.
Last night it was confirmed that Arsenal U21s have finished in 14th place (out of 29 teams) in Premier League 2. As a result, their tie in the last-16 playoff round fixture will be away to City, which certainly represents a considerably difficult challenge.
City are the current Premier League 2 champions and have won four of the last five titles.
Last season City beat Arsenal at the quarter-finals stage, prevailing with a 3-2 victory in a game that went to extra time.
This season City have frequently dispatched of teams by significant scorelines and have numerous players that can cause damage to Arsenal, including forward Matty Warhurst.
Defender Max Alleyne, meanwhile, has already featured in the Premier League and is very highly rated.
Arsenal will certainly need to field something close to their strongest available side if they are to stand a chance of progressing.
Coach Max Porter will hope to have the likes of Marli Salmon and Andre Harriman-Annous available, while Harrison Dudziak’s experience gained on loan at Braintree Town could prove useful.
Arsenal have been without right-back Jaden Dixon in recent games due to injury, while midfielder Theo Julienne was also absent for the defeat to Crystal Palace this week.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird