They might both still be schoolboys, but Benik Afobe and Jason Banton are readying themselves for a tough season as they look to impose themselves on Steve Bould’s under-18s side. Banton returned to Arsenal after short spells away at Tottenham and West Ham and scored on his debut for England u-16s last year.
Afobe, meanwhile, scored goals for fun at under-16 level last season and will look to continue his great scoring record in the under-18s.
Gilles Sunu, Rhys Murphy and Luke Freeman are all still eligible for the u-18s but with injuries inevitable to take their toll throughout the season, chances will surely open up for Afobe and Banton.
They are not the only schoolboys hoping to make an impact either. The impressive Chuks Aneke has already represented England at u-17 level, whilst the likes of Ben Glasgow and ’keeper Charlie Mann are also names to look out for.
It promises to be another interesting season for the u-18s who will be hoping to win their Academy League section for the third year in succession. Stay close to the site for all the latest developments throughout the course of the campaign and check back tomorrow for a preview of the first game of the season, the home clash with Everton.
