40. Luke Freeman

Highly-rated striker Luke Freeman joined Arsenal amid a blaze of publicity as a 15-year-old in January 2008, but he only began to demonstrate his vast potential last season.

Also capable of playing on the wing, Luke scored 11 goals for the u-18s last campaign and also made his FA Youth Cup debut after impressing for England u-17s.

But it wasn’t all plain sailing, and the former Gillingham youngster endured a miserable Winter after a dip in form, but he showed terrific mental strength to bounce back and end the season on a high.

After scoring three goals in his debut season, much was expected of Luke during his first full campaign at the club. He stepped up to the plate immediately, hitting a well-taken brace in the opening day victory over Everton at London Colney.

Further goals against West Ham and Chelsea followed before he suffered that aforementioned dip. But he emerged stronger from his ordeal and forged a lethal partnership with fellow marksman Benik Afobe for both club and country. The pair were unstoppable in the Premier Academy League and also whilst on duty for England u-17s.

Luke signed his first professional contract in April, and made three substitute appearances for Neil Banfield’s Reserves before representing his country at the UEFA European u-17 Championships.

Luke will be a regular for Bould’s under-18s this season, and will also be hoping to break his way into Banfield’s squad on a more regular basis.

Born March 22, 1992

Signed scholarship Summer 2008

Signed professional April 2009