It all appeared to be going so well for Arsenal U18s in the early stages of the campaign, with Adam Birchall’s side enjoying an unbeaten start.
Since the 6-1 thrashing by Stoke City in the Premier League Cup in early October, however, matters have taken a turn for the worse.
There was further frustration yesterday as an abject Arsenal side lost 6-2 at home to Aston Villa, extending their run of defeats in all competitions to four games.
Birchall has challenged his players to support each other as they aim to get out of this difficult situation and also indicated that the coaching staff will have to endure a period of introspection.
There are some talented players in this group but they have certainly been hit hard by the loss of Max Dowman to higher levels, while the highly-rated trio of Andre Harriman-Annous, Ife Ibrahim and Marli Salmon no longer play league games for the U18s despite still being eligible at that level.
Attacking wise there isn’t too much of an issue. Ceadach O’Neill has thrived since being moved into a central striking position and has scored six goals in seven league games this season.
Winger Brando Bailey-Joseph continues to be a threat, schoolboy Kyran Thompson is making good progress and first year Marley Frohock scored his first goal for the U18s yesterday.
There appears to be a lack of balance in midfield despite Teshaun Murisa, Maalik Hashi and Theo Julienne all being talented players individually.
The main problem, however, is certainly in defence with too many avoidable errors being made at times.
Birchall has also indicated that his players need to do the basics correctly and there is a feeling that some players have been too casual in possession on some occasions.
The U18s aren’t in action again for three weeks, when they will face Norwich in the Premier League Cup. That will give them plenty of time to reflect on the situation, although some individuals could play for the U19s or U21s in the ensuing period.
It is hoped that the U18s will be more focused and play with greater cohesion when they next take to the pitch.
Birchall could also make greater use of some of the first year scholars – left-back Josh Tahou, for instance, looks like a good prospect.
Arsenal also have some talented schoolboys at their disposal including the likes of Emerson Nwaneri and Mishel Nduka.
Nwaneri has already made his U18s debut and giving chances to schoolboys may also increase the pressure on older players to perform.
The return from injury of Louis Zecevic John, who can play as a striker or out wide, could also help the team.
Overall, there is a lot of work for the U18s to do and the hope has to be that they will bounce back soon.