A new season at youth level always brings excitement but for many players there is also a feeling that the upcoming campaign is a very important one in terms of their overall development.
Marcell Washington falls into that category, with the left-back having now officially been an Arsenal player for a year following a successful trial.
Previously at Chelsea, Washington is the step-son of former Blues and England left-back Ryan Bertrand.
Washington, who turns 19 next month, has made 30 appearances for Arsenal U21s, scoring twice.
The youngster has often impressed with his bursts forwards and he is also developing well defensively.
With Josh Ogunnaike yet to commit to a new contract, Washington could now be relatively unopposed as the first-choice left-back for Arsenal U21s, with U18 players Josh Tahou and Hakeem Abubakar capable of providing cover if needed.
Washington will be aiming to push on this season and first-team recognition of some description will probably be one of his key objectives.
Although he is unlikely to be registered in the Champions League due to the length of time he has been at the club, Washington will be targeting a domestic cup callup.
If his development goes to plan then a loan spell in the second half of the season could be a possibility, with his current focus being on continuing to make an impact for the U21s.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird