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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called up two inform Nigerian academy players, Nathan Butler Oyedeji and Andre Harriman Annous, to first team training ahead of the match against Ipswich Town on Friday. This decision comes after injuries sidelined key wingers Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling.
Butler Oyedeji, the Arsenal U21 captain, has been in exceptional form this season, contributing 14 goal involvements in 12 matches across the Premier League 2 and EFL Trophy. Harriman Annous, who will turn 17 on match day, has impressed with goals on his debuts in the UEFA Youth League, FA Youth Cup, EFL Trophy, and U18 Premier League Cup.
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The versatile academy players can operate both as strikers and wingers, offering Arteta flexible options to address the injury crisis. Ethan Nwaneri, another Hale End talent, also participated in first team training and is being considered for the lineup against Ipswich.
Editorial
Mikel Arteta's decision to promote Nathan Butler Oyedeji and Andre Harriman Annous to the first team highlights Arsenal’s faith in their academy system. These players represent the future of the club and underline the value of nurturing homegrown talent, particularly during periods of injury induced squad depletion.
The opportunity for young players to train with the senior squad and potentially feature in Premier League matches is invaluable for their development. It also demonstrates Arsenal's commitment to integrating academy stars into the first team, a philosophy that has yielded success stories like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe.
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As Arsenal prepares for their clash with Ipswich, the inclusion of Butler Oyedeji and Harriman Annous could inject fresh energy and creativity, showcasing the depth and potential within the club's youth ranks.
Did You Know?
Nathan Butler Oyedeji The Arsenal U21 captain has registered 14 goal contributions in just 12 appearances this season across Premier League 2 and EFL Trophy competitions.
Andre Harriman Annous The 16 year old scored on his debut in four different competitions this season, including the UEFA Youth League.
Ethan Nwaneri At just 16, Nwaneri became Arsenal’s youngest-ever Premier League debutant in September 2022.
Bukayo Saka The injured star has been an [integral](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/football-culture/) part of Arsenal’s rise under Arteta and is one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers.
Hale End [Academy](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/news/interviews/champions-league-spot-a-big-motivation-for-forest-awoniyi/) Arsenal’s youth system has produced several stars, including Saka, Smith Rowe, and now potentially Butler-Oyedeji and Harriman-Annous.