Arsenal Academy’s biggest regret?

In 2003, Keanu Marsh-Brown was playing football for the all-conquering Arsenal under-12s side at Hale End alongside the likes of Jack Wilshere, Emmanuel Frimpong and Roarie Deacon. Then, he left for London rivals Fulham and has since excelled for the south London outfit putting in decent performances at right-back. However, the reason that most people have heard of Keanu is because of his international exploits with England under-16s, where he has outshone Arsenal full-back Sam Byles. Today, it was announced that he has signed a two year scholarship with Fulham, and although Byles is a decent player, the Arsenal Academy coaching staff could live to regret their decision to let Keanu leave. He is one of the most talented young full-backs in the country and his Fulham coach Steve Head has heaped praise on him, saying

“Keanu joined us as an Under-12, having spent time on Arsenal’s books. He’s developed excellently over the last four years and we’re absolutely delighted at how well he’s applied himself and listened to the advice and coaching of the staff at Fulham.

“He is now an England international at Under-15 level, has great technical ability, and is very attack-minded. There is room to work on the defensive side of his game, but he understands that and is more than willing to learn. He is excellent going forward, has a good cross and has got on the score sheet a couple of times this season.”

So, could the Arsenal Academy’s coaching staff’s decision to let Keanu leave the club four years ago, be one that they regret? Well, the possibility seems very likely.

Vela backs Osasuna to stay up

Arsenal loanee Carlos Vela has stated his belief that Osasuna can avoid relegation from La Liga. Vela missed last week’s 1-0 defeat to Recreativo Huelva because of suspension, but he is back in the side for the trip to Espanyol on Sunday. Speaking at a press conference at the Pamplona club’s training ground, he said

“We will escape soon and without suffering too much,” he said during a press conference at Tajonar training grounds.

“I am totally confident and I can tell you there will not be any problems for the team to play in Primera Liga next season. “It is not going to be easy but we will push for the results until the last game. Our team are very talented, but lots of others are in the same situation.

“Our players have qualities and sooner or later the ball will enter the net. We attackers have a lot of responsibilities but it is a team thing.”

Vela looks set to start on the left wing for Osasuna on Sunday, below you can see a full list of the loanees in action this weekend. Check back after the games to find out how they get on.

SATURDAY’S MATCHES

Mark Randall- Burnley v Sheffield United

Mark is expected to be on the bench for Burnley.

Jay Simpson- Hartlepool v Millwall

Jay will be hoping to win back his place in the starting eleven as Millwall attempt to avoid relegation.

SUNDAY’S MATCHES

Kieran Gibbs- Ipswich v Norwich

Kieran will be hoping to feature in this local derby.

Carlos Vela- Espanyol v Osasuna

After missing out through suspension last weekend, Carlos will be raring to go as Osasuna take on Espanyol.

Fran Merida- Celta Vigo v Real Sociedad

Fran was on target for Sociedad last week and looks to have done enough to retain his place in the starting line-up.

Pedro Botelho- Norma San Leonardo v Salamanca

Pedro missed the last game because of injury and is a doubt for this fixture.