Arsenal U21s commenced pre-season training this week and there are several questions that need to be answered before the new campaign gets underway.
The most prominent of those centres on who will be coaching the team following the departure of Max Porter to Stoke City.
Although it is still possible that an external appointment could be made, if that isn’t the case then it seems likely that David Horseman, who has been at the club for almost a year, will take the reins.
An experienced coach, Horseman had a brief spell working within Manchester United’s academy setup prior to joining Arsenal and he also previously managed Forest Green at senior level.
Last season Horseman was in charge for some games for Arsenal at youth level with mixed results but it is hoped that this season there could be greater consistency if he was in charge.
Furthermore, decisions need to be made on the futures of some of the older players in the U21 setup.
Ismeal Kabia (pictured) and Louie Copley had spells on loan last season and could be candidates for further temporary moves, while goalkeeper Lucas Nygaard is back from a loan at Brabrand.
Winger Archie Stevens, meanwhile, is 20 years old and may be looking to add to his experience of senior football having previously made one appearance for Rangers, who also loaned him out to Dunfermline Athletic.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird