Arsenal: 4 things to work on in training during international break

4. Blooding More Youngsters in Case of Midfield Crisis

No, not Jack Wilshere, although his presence will certainly not hurt in and around London Colney as Arsenal have to prepare for the possibility of a midfield crisis.

Granit Xhaka is already absent for the remainder of the calendar year and while at present there are two clear options for the double pivot and two more vying for a place, there can be no certainties.

If Thomas Partey or any one of the current central midfield options were to fall foul to injury or suspension then the numbers are suddenly very thin. Internal solutions have to be unearthed and seeing the likes of Tim Akinola and Charlie Patino continuing to train with the first team is a sign of preparation for that.

Of course, their involvements can come organically as they, like the others in the academy, continue to progress and develop with age and nurturing. Their times will come at some stage.

Just as Arteta said Arsenal are only one defeat away from crisis, they can also be one or two injuries away from it as well. Akinola and Patino are just two examples who are both inexperienced at this level, yet their times could come sooner than they think. Ensuring they are as prepared as they can be, which is aided by regular senior training sessions and the current break in domestic action, is on the docket during the international fixtures.