First team could learn something from the Arsenal youths

A great evening at the stadium for the first leg of the Youth Cup Final



First team could learn something from the Arsenal youths

Wilshere: First touch sets him apart


No booing at the end of that game, was there? Did many people leave before the end? It didn't look like it.

I suppose there are a couple of reasons for that. Firstly, at three quid a throw, the stadium was full of youngsters who don't normally get much of a chance to watch Arsenal in the flesh, and were determined to enjoy every minute of it.

Secondly, here was a performance, which actually made you feel proud to be associated with the club. If Messrs Wenger, Adebayor and Eboue really want to understand the fact that some supporters have been disaffected with the team this season, then I hope they sit down and watch the video.

The main thing was, here was a side who were determined to seize their moment of glory. Having watched the insipid way the first team have capitulated in the important games, it's really reaffirmed my faith in football in general and Arsenal in particular.

At the back, we had a big lad (Bartley) who actually looked and played like a centre half (as opposed to looking like a midfield player who has wandered back to defend a corner and somehow got lost). Beside him was another boy (Ayling) who was quick and decisive. They actually looked as if they might even be talking to each other. How remarkable! The two full backs weren't the best, but they at least stopped Liverpool getting crosses in.

Up front the number 9 (Sunu) ran his socks off, stayed onside and put away his chance really well. If he ever 'fills out', he's going to be a real handful. I don't remember him sulking or looking like he had one foot on the plane to Milan, but perhaps I'm missing something. The other lad, Sanchez Watts, was sharp, left footed and looked dangerous every time he got the ball.

The real star of the show was Jack Wilshere. If he doesn't go on to be a top player, then something has seriously gone wrong. It's the first touch that sets him apart. It always propels him forward and at pace. Compare him to, say, Bendtner where every touch moves him five yards further away from the goal. As well as having skill and vision, he's also got a bit of 'dog' in him. Every time he went in for a 50/50 ball, I had to look the other way. He's obviously got a cool temperament as well. He's just about to take a crucial penalty in a cup final, and he stops for a minute to do his shoelaces up! No nerves there, then.

I don't remember him or anyone else feigning injury, whingeing, whining or giving up, even when Liverpool got a goal back. Normally the signal for the first team to implode. A good guide to team morale is the number of 'Double Teapots' (both hands on both hips) you see. I can't remember seeing one last night. Next time you watch the seniors, have a little count. You'll be shocked and surprised, amused and annoyed, in equal measure.

All in all a great team performance. I don't know what cockles are, but mine were well and truly warmed. At the end of the game, the whole team came over and acknowledged the crowd. It even looked spontaneous. These are kids, but on the day they got it so right. And all this for three measly quid! I've got no idea how much my Arsenal fix normally costs. I'm far too scared to do the maths.


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