Arsenal: 4 exciting academy stars who could feature vs Nottingham Forest

2. Tim Akinola

Tipped to go out on loan in the summer with some minor concerns over his ability on the ball, Tim Akinola has come on leaps and bounds since.

Another one of the academy stars who has been called up to train with the senior squad on a number of occasions, the all-action midfielder will have few better opportunities to be involved with the team this season than now.

Kevin Betsy’s excellent coaching is no better demonstrated than with Akinola. It proves how progress is non-linear, with the technical side of his game improved immensely in short period of time.

Boasting excellent physical traits and a determined attitude, his composure on the ball in transition is the standout feature. Already impressing off the ball, his game is far more well rounded now. Normally a defensive midfielder, he’s been more akin to a No. 8 this season.

Akinola is someone who looks physically ready for senior football. Arsenal will most probably trigger the option on his deal and then send him out in search of first team minutes, but with Arteta so thin in that area for Sunday, there is every chance he could feature on the bench.

Less likely to get a start – he wasn’t seen in senior training this week – there is still an opportunity for him to travel with the squad to the City Ground. Furthermore, while it could be injury related, he was not involved against Brighton on Friday, which could hint towards his involvement on Sunday.

Continued on next page…