The Telegraph has an article on the Arsenal youngsters who might be ready for the big stage.
Jack Wilshere is already making waves. He is now officially the most exciting talent in English football since Gazza. His performance in the Emirates Cup was singled out by Wenger.
“I’ve been especially pleased with the performances of Wilshere over the past couple of days because he has shown how much he has progressed over the past 12 months and he clearly has a promising future ahead of him.”
We have already seen Kieran Gibbs who filled in admirably for Gael Clichy. OK. I did see that unfortunate slip that gave up the goal against Man Utd but other than that he was very dependable and even showed some attacking flair.
Fran Merida has been making rapid strides and he was on display in both Emirates Cup matches where he assisted Eduardo in the second goal against Rangers. In an interview with Sky Sports, he says he is determined to get more playing time and elevate his status within the squad.
“I think a success would be to push up in the first team, get some more chances and progress,” Merida added. “That is all I can do and I will try my best.”
The article also mentions Sanchez Watt, Emmanuel Frimpong, and Rhys Murphy.
Here are a few more that the article did not mention:
Aaron Ramsey already made his complete Premiership debut this May against Pompey after being on the bench for most of the season. He made a total of 22 appearances and hopes he can partner Cesc Fabregas in the midfield. Ramsey is stronger and quicker and has larger ambitions.
“I definitely feel ready to push for the first team,” Ramsey told Arsenal.com.
Wenger might not have to look too far for a holding midfielder. Francis Coquelin, an aggressive midfielder with strong tackling skills and often compared to Claude Makelele might get some more playing time after pre-season appearances against Barnet and Szombathelyi Haladás. He could get some valuable grooming from Patrick Vieira should he join from Inter.
Henri Lansbury had an outstanding U- 19 European championship scoring three goals and assisting in as four more sparking England’s entry into the finals after beating France 3-1 in extra time in the semi-finals. Lansbury’s form caught the eye of UEFA who named him in the list of top ten outstanding prospects. Fran Merida also made the list.
Gavin Hoyte may also be ready for the big time. The right back is physically strong and quick. Wenger could use him as cover for Bacary Sagna should he get injured. Hoyte also excels at playing center back which provides another option to Toure and Senderos having departed.