Just a couple of weeks ago there had been some concern regarding the depth of Arsenal U21s’ centre-back options going into the new season.
However, any such fears have now been alleviated after Josh Ogunnaike signed a professional contract and Elijah Upson joined the club having elected to leave Tottenham.
Ogunnaike, who is also capable of playing at left-back, will be a contender to feature as a left-sided centre-back, while Upson will be aiming to establish himself in the opposite central defensive berth.
Upson, 18, is the son of former Arsenal defender Matthew and already has some brief experience of U21s football having played twice at that level for Tottenham.
In addition, he has also featured in the UEFA Youth League, which included scoring against Monaco last season.
Arsenal tend to give plenty of opportunities to impress to prospects that they have signed from elsewhere and Upson is likely to feature prominently at youth level this season while he will also be targeting a first-team callup at some stage.
Regarding the U21s’ overall centre-back options, Marli Salmon could still play some games at that level when he isn’t required to be with the first-team.
Wales youth international Brayden Clarke possesses plenty of experience at U21 level and may now be a candidate for a loan move.
Arsenal also have some younger players who can be called upon if needed such as Patrick Stachow, Callan Hamill (when he returns from injury) and new signing Daniel McCarron.
Jaden Dixon, meanwhile, has mainly been used at right-back since joining Arsenal but can also play as a centre-back if needed.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird