Arsenal under-18s take on Aston Villa in the Academy League play-off semi-final at Villa Park on Saturday. Here are a couple of Villa players to keep an eye out for.
Nathan Delfouneso
Striker Nathan is an England youth international and has come to the attention of many people because of his excellent goal record for the Three Lions. Tall and powerful, Arsenal will have to be alert to shut out the powerhouse at Villa Park.
Harry Forester
Striker Harry signed a two and half year long professional contract at the club after impressing since his arrival from Watford. Villa’s academy director Bryan Jones had the following to say about the youngster
“He is a good passer, has great vision and can play in a variety of positions.
“But, as I say to all the academy graduates, there’s still a lot to learn. He will have to work hard, put in lots of effort and perform well for Aston Villa.
“He’s got a very good attitude and that should stand him in good stead.”
He has also featured for England at under-16 level and scored the winner against France in the Montaigu Tournament semi-final in 2007.
In terms of the Arsenal side, Rhys Murphy could return up front, whilst Craig Eastmond could start at right-back ahead of Anton Blackwood. Henri Lansbury is back in full training, but is unlikely to be fit for this one. Kyle Bartley is likely to miss out with a foot injury.
The Gunners could line up something like this:
——————–Szczesny—————
–Eastmond—Thomas (c)————-Cruise——Evina
–Watt——-Frimpong————Ayling———Freeman
———————-Wilshere————————
———————-Murphy————————
A full preview of the big game to come tomorrow.
