Abubakar, Mbala and Tahou set to compete for U18s left-back berth

The new academy season got underway today with Arsenal U18s commencing their campaign with a goalless draw away to West Bromwich Albion.

There is a frequent battle for places at this level with many younger prospects seeking to edge ahead of those who are older than them.

One of the most competitive positions in the side at present is at left-back, where coach Adam Birchall will have three useful options to choose from when everybody is available.

Second year scholar Josh Tahou missed the end of last season due to injury and is still sidelined going into this campaign.

A hard-working and tenacious defender, Tahou will be eager to demonstrate his qualities when he returns to action.

There are also two first year scholars for Birchall to consider, with Elyon Mbala having started today.

Mbala featured prominently for the U18s towards the end of last season and relishes pushing forwards to join the attack.

Hakeem Abubakar also possesses some experience of U18s football and was involved with the U21s in their pre-season friendly against Boreham Wood.

Another player who also poses a significant attacking threat, Abubakar has also developed well defensively and was brought on as a substitute in today’s game

Birchall will face some difficult selection decisions during the campaign but the left-back situation is an intriguing one and whoever prevails will also have a chance of receiving callups at U19 and U21 levels at times.

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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on X @jeorgebird

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