Comfortable at both right-back and centre back, Paul enjoyed a fine debut season as a first year scholar. His performances impressed the coaching staff so much that, not only was he rewarded with a professional deal last summer, but he was also named in the Club’s Champions League squad and given the no.37 shirt.
It was high praise for the Edmonton-born youngster, but he hasn’t let the pressure get to him. He has captained the Reserves on occasion and is a regular in Neil Banfield’s side. He is strong in the tackle, extremely quick and is not afraid to engage in physical battles with the opposition. He put in some solid performances in the FA Youth Cup run last season and will be looking to be named in the Carling Cup squad next campaign.
Having featured in the England Youth setup before, it can’t be long now until the England u-19s manager Brian Eastick comes knocking.
FACTFILE
Name: Paul Rodgers
Age: 18 (D.O.B. 06/10/89)
Position: Right-back/Centre back
Previous clubs: None
Appearances:
ARSENAL
Reserves: 24+7
FA Youth Cup: 8
Under-18s:40+9 (1)
TOTAL: 72+16 (1)
