Young Guns (Go for it!) – Part 1 of a look at Arsenal Young troubleshooters

Well last weeks piece seemed to poke the hornets nest in Middlesex.

It’s amazing how p!ssed off they get when you mention that that aren’t actually from London and then they resort to ranting about Woolwich and descend into homophobic slander about our players.

I for one, have no issue with and am proud of our South London routes.

As for the homophobic slurs, all I have to say is……CLASS IS PERMANENT.

I also appreciated being trolled by some 14 year old (I assume), called Ian,  hiding behind his computer screen & instructing  me, & I quote;

“If I were you I’d go jump in the lake and release the world from your 9 year old non intelligence”

Sums up the difference between the light & dark sides of North London.

Anyway, enough of all that, back onto important things, The Arsenal.

I thought I’d look at some some of the younger, fringe players in the squad & assess (in my eyes) whether they can break into the match day squad and fulfill their potential.

First up, Gedion Zelalem;

The German/American recently caused a storm in a Starbucks cup by choosing USA over GER for his international allegiance.

His talent is undoubted, which is why the Americans wanted him. His physique is questionable, which is why he hasn’t broke into the first team squad (as of yet).

Following his starring roles at the U20 World Cup, the ‘Next Messi’ apparently, this season could be the time he pushes on starts putting the more established names at Arsenal under pressure.

 

Serge Gnabry;

 

At the end of the 2014 Gnabry was Sergeing forward & pushing Theo and The Ox for the right wing spot. Unfortunately, his season long injury set back his development and he seemed to slip from view.

Now he’s back and raring to go and has the full backing of the rejuvenated Nacho, who reckons Serge will be the ‘break-out star’ for next season.

He has previously shown he has the awareness. speed, balance & natural ability to slot into either wide role or even central mid, but there are some big names vying for these spots, so progress will be tough. However, as Hector proved, age & reputation aren’t everything, if you’re  good enough, you’re good enough.

Carl Jenkinson;

The oldest of the ‘Young Guns’ at the ripe old age of 23 and on loan for another season, probably back at the ‘ammers. Jenko’s position at right back is covered in abundance by Debuchey, Bellerin and Chambers (more on him later) but Arsene has voiced his faith in Carl and his puppy dog enthusiasm. So another season of full time EPL experience could see him return in 2016 as a serious contender for the right back berth.

Calum Chambers:

Everything was looking good following Calum’s £16m move  from Southampton (Arsenals 4th highest transfer fee behind Mezut, Alexis and Santi). Regular appearances at The Emirates even got CC a call up to the full England squad, but Bellerin’s rise to the top dog at RB and the signing of Gabriel, have pushed Chambers down the order, so much so he didn’t even make the cup final squad.

With Debuchy back and gunning for Bellerin and with perhaps limited chances at centre back, Calum’s best bet maybe a loan spell to get regular outings and Arsene’s attention.

Also focusing on one position may also aide his progress although we should recall WEnger suggesting he could cover a defensive mid as well.

Personally I think all four are good enough to have lasting, successful careers as Gooners, only time & the clamour of big name players will tell.

As George Michael once said to Andrew Ridgely, on a quiet walk on Hampstead Heath:

Young Guns (Go For It)

Part 2 on Tuesday, so until then GOYG!