Luke Ayling out with a point to prove

When Arsenal handed professional contracts to six first-years a month ago, five further youngsters were left in the dark over their futures. These include Luke Ayling, Craig Eastmond and James Shea who are all products of the Hale End academy as well as Anton Blackwood and Jonas Rasmussen.

Seeing as Arsenal were so determined to sign Jonas last year it looks as if he will sign a pro deal sooner rather than later but for the other four it is anyone’s guess whether they will be given a contract next summer or be released.

Luke Ayling steadily worked his way through the ranks at Hale End and featured in the Reserves whilst he was still a schoolboy. He played regularly for the under-18s at centre-back last season although he can also play in midfield. With several centre-backs ahead of him at reserve level, it seems unlikely Luke will be given a regular starting berth by Neil Banfield.

Craig Eastmond featured in midfield towards the end of last season but can also play at right-back. Maybe that would be his best option for the forthcoming campaign although he is currently second choice behind Abu Ogogo.

James Shea is nowhere near Wojciech Szczesny’s level at the moment and will have to make do with being the regular under-18s ‘keeper. He will need to impress in order to be offered a pro deal.

Anton Blackwood is still eligible for the under-18s this campaign and that’s where he’ll probably be playing most of his football, with a few reserve appearances as well along the way.

These lads know that they will be playing for their future’s this season and that a bad campaign could ruin their dream of making the big time for good.