There were two contrasting occasions for Arsenal last night as the first-team suffered a shock Carabao Cup exit against Fleetwood Town, while the club’s U21 side progressed to the knockout stages of the EFL Trophy following a victory against AFC Wimbledon.
Abraham Owusu-Gyasi started the latter fixture, with the 17-year-old making his EFL Trophy debut.
A player who is strong physically, Owusu-Gyasi is capable of playing at centre-back but now mainly tends to be used at right-back.
Right-back has been something of a problem position at U21 level at times, especially with Jaden Dixon having recently played more frequently at centre-back.
Theo Julienne is capable of playing there but seems more suited to midfield, while younger players such as Callan Hamill and Josiah King have struggled with injuries.
Given that this is a pivotal season in his development in which he will discover whether he will be offered a professional contract, the situation was far from ideal.
Owusu-Gyasi endured some difficult moments earlier this season when he found himself left out of the starting lineup for three consecutive matches at U18 level.
However, the youngster worked hard in training and has featured prominently of late as the U18s have continued their winning form.
Owusu-Gyasi’s impact for the U18s has also led to opportunities at higher levels – he started for the U19s against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Youth League last week and has now had involvement with the U21s.
Last night was Owusu-Gyasi’s EFL Trophy debut, although he did feature twice in Premier League 2 last season.
The aim now for Owusu-Gyasi will be to continue making an impact for the U18s and also take any opportunities he is afforded for the older age groups.
If he can succeed in that regard then his aim of securing a professional contract may well come to fruition.