As we reach the business end of the season, Arsenal’s u-18 side have a play-0ff place in their sights. If they were to finish top of Group A they would progress to a semi-final against the winners of one of the other groups, with the winners of that game going to the final. Arsenal are currently five points off the leaders West Ham with three games in hand and also have a superior goal difference. Here I discuss the claims for and against the u-18s winning the Academy League.
REMAINING FIXTURES
MARCH
Saturday- Reading (a)
Fri 21- Chelsea (a)
Sat 29- Cardiff (h)
APRIL
Sat 5- MK Dons (a)
Sat 12- Bristol City (a)
TBA
Fulham (h)
Millwall (a)
There are some tricky away fixtures in there, so Arsenal must win their two remaining home games.
YES
Nacer’s goals could be vital
The team is getting stronger every week and Steve Bould has been getting the best out of his players. Arsenal still have Lansbury and Sanchez Watt to come back from injuries and can call on the likes of Nacer Barazite and Rui Fonte when needed.
NO
Several key players will be missing because of international duty. Arsenal will be without the likes of Luke Freeman, Emmanuel Frimpong and Jack Wilshere for key games. Also, unless Barazite is played on a regular basis, the youngsters lack an in-form goalscorer. Rhys Murphy has only just come back from a lengthy injury lay off and Luke Freeman still needs time. In addition, Steve Bould said after the Charlton game that he would rather field the youngsters every game than play his strongest side as it would benefit them in the long run.
VERDICT
With a bit of luck, the youngsters can do it. There is a great team spirit and their fate is in their own hands and they are clicking into form at just the right time, but they need to pick up more points on their travels.
Me at the Charlton game last week
I will of course be reporting on all of these fixtures as the title race comes to a head.
Remember to check back tomorrow for a full preview of Saturday’s trip to Reading.
