FIVE Arsenal starlets to follow Hector Bellerin into the Gunners’ first team
Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin had one of the harshest debuts imaginable when he was pitted against the ‘Yellow Wall’ in the Champions League in a night that all Arsenal fans will want to forget away at Borussia Dortmund.
Since that forgettable night at the Westfalenstadion, the former Barcelona right-back has turned in several assured and positive performances, giving us Gooners hope that Wenger has, yet again, unearthed a gem.
Bellerin’s chance came about due to our ever mounting injury list, therefore, it stands to reason that a few other youth players may well be thrown to the lions at some point during this campaign.
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The wonderfully named Julio Pleguezuelo only signed professional terms with Arsenal in April of this year having joined the Gunners from, yep; you’ve guessed it, Barcelona.
The Spanish youth international is extremely versatile, with the ability to play either side of central defence as well as right-back – something that may well come in handy if these injuries keep piling up.
The Arsenal youngster actually made the bench for the Gunners recent clash with Steve Bruce’s Hull City.
A towering centre back with pace and a physical presence wouldn’t go amiss in our current back four and, although it’s too early to tell, Ajayi may well develop into our Sol Campbell replacement – better later than never, ey?!
The attacking midfielder – who can play as a No.10 or on either flank – is currently on loan with Brentford. During his brief time with the Bees, Toral has made seven appearances (although only one has been a start) but the Arsenal midfielder did find the back of the net in his most recent outing.
Us Gooners are yet to catch a glimpse of the Brazilian striker despite him joining from Fluminese in January 2011.
Due to work permit restrictions, the young forward has spent three seasons on loan with Real Murcia – he is currently on loan in Spain again, but this time with Almeria.
Silva now has a Spanish passport which means he’s able to play in the UK.
Probably the most obvious name of the list with a lot of hype and media attention surrounding the American – he became the first player to play for Arsenal who was born after Arsene Wenger took charge of the north London club.
The midfielder appears to be close to making the first-team matchday squads given that he went on the club’s pre-season tour and featured in the Emirates Cup during the summer.