A lot of news flying around today, first up it appears that we have agreed a deal to sign 15 year-old midfielder Oguzhan Özyakup from Dutch club AZ Alkmaar. He certainly seems an interesting talent and would suit our style of play perfectly.
With both Özyakup and Ignasi Miquel set to link up with the Gunners in the early months of next season to add to an already large squad, it will mean that some of the current players will have to leave in order to make way for the new blood. Forwards Vincent van den Berg and Ahmed Abdulla have already been shown the door, and several others could follow either on loan or on a permanent basis. Kerrea Gilbert is one candidate to leave, with some reports suggesting that Arsenal have already agreed to cancel his contract at the end of the season. James Dunne, Abu Ogogo and Rene Steer may also leave, but impressive performances in next week’s reserve game against Aston Villa may convince the coaching staff to keep them on at the club.
In other news, Neil Banfield has revealed that he was pleased with last night’s second-string win over West Ham at Underhill, saying
“I was really pleased with them tonight, although the second-half was a bit disjointed. We had four very flair-orientated players and perhaps lost our shape with Diaby going off. But overall I was pleased with them.”
He also praised goalscorers Rui Fonte and Jack Wilshere for their goals
“The first goal was a real Arsenal goal. There was good combination play in and around the attacking third and then Jack [Wilshere] has slipped the ball through for Rui [Fonte] to finish. The second one was a bit of an individual one which is good to see.”
The Gunners are now six games unbeaten in reserve league south, and Banfield has indicated that dedication in training is the key.
“It is due to hard work. They have been working on their game and I am a firm believer in the fact that you get what you deserve and the lads have worked extremely hard. They are now starting to see the reward for that hard work.”
The focus now turns to the under-18s play-off semi-final against Aston Villa on Saturday. More to come on that game as the week progresses, with a full preview available on Friday.
