Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has promoted two teenage defenders of Nigerian descent to first-team training as the Gunners stepped up preparations for their Carabao Cup quarter-final encounter with Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.
The Spanish coach took a close look at academy prospects Josh Nichols and Josh Ogunnaike during Monday’s training session at the Sobha Realty Training Centre in London Colney, as he continues to assess youthful options within his squad.
Both youngsters began the session in the gym before joining the senior players on the pitch, reflecting Arsenal’s structured approach to integrating academy talents into first-team activities.
Ogunnaike, 17, is an attack-minded left-back who has enjoyed a busy campaign with Arsenal’s youth sides. He has featured in 18 matches across competitions this season, including outings in the U18 Premier League, UEFA Youth League, EFL Trophy and the FA Youth Cup.
Nichols, a natural right-back, has trained with the first team on several occasions this month but is yet to make an appearance this season. The 19-year-old, however, made his senior debut in last season’s Carabao Cup, impressing with a composed display as Arsenal cruised to a convincing victory over Bolton Wanderers in the third round.
He was also part of the travelling squad to Belgium for the UEFA Champions League clash against Club Brugge, although he remained an unused substitute.
Meanwhile, teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri, alongside wingers Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke both previously linked with interest from the Nigeria Football Federation were also spotted training with the first team ahead of the Palace showdown.
