Arsenal: 3 youngsters to introduce against Brighton

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta speaks to the media after the Premier League match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on March 14, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images) /

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LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 15: Arthur Okonkwo of Arsenal in action during the Premier League 2 match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on April 15, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images) /

2. Arthur Okonkwo

The young goalkeeper has trained with the first team throughout this season but has yet to make any appearances, largely because his position is particularly difficult.

The mental pressure on Arthur Okonkwo would be immense. An error or two on his debut could wreck his confidence. However, the shortcomings of senior options should tempt Arteta’s hand.

Mat Ryan, in the best of terms, has been perfectly suitable as a backup keeper. He’s shown his experience in the few showings he’s had. Neither Ryan or his error-prone partner, Bernd Leno, are long-term options and Ryan is merely on loan and Leno may indeed be sold this summer or the next.

With the Australian ineligible to play on Sunday against his parent club on Sunday, Okonkwo is certain at least for a spot on the bench, but there is no reason why he shouldn’t go one better.

Okonkwo would provide an excellent in-house option. Even if Arsenal splash the cash on a first-team keeper, gauging Okonkwo’s ability may see him upgraded from third to second-choice keeper. This would save Arsenal valuable funds while allowing him to develop into a starter.

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