Player Of The Month – April 09 – Zak Ansah

Forward Zak Ansah has collected the Lamb Awards sponsored Young Guns Player Of  The Month crown for April 2009, after comfortably making the step up to Under 18’s football and for bagging a classy brace on his first start.

The 14-year-old was playing for the Under 15’s at the start of the season, but will finish this break through campaign as a reliable option for Steve Bould’s Under 18’s as they retained the Group A League title.

Zak – the son of much travelled former Southend midfielder Andy Ansah – celebrates his 15th birthday on Monday, and he’ll no doubt look back on the last 12 months with pride after earning himself the guarantee of a scholarship deal in another years time. Boasting pace, power, agility and a knack for being in the ‘right place at the right time’ the young poacher is immensely talented.

The month began a little slow for Zak, but it quickly picked up pace. After playing a part in the Under 16 side which faltered in the Nike Cup, the striker made the bench for the Academy fixture with Crystal Palace. The Gunners romped home with Ansah playing the final 15 minutes – and impressing.

Seven days later Bould handed him his first start in an extremely youthful XI. Two goals in five minutes from the quick-silver forward on the hour mark secured the win either side of Chuks Aneke and Benik Afobe efforts. It was an emphatic way to mark your first start.

Zak then flew off to Italy for the Atalanta Cup, but after elimination at the hands of Inter Milan, the month came to an end on a sour note. But the signs are certainly there that he has a rather bright future, and you’re certain to be hearing a lot more about this youngster in the coming months.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Young Guns Returns + April News Round Up

After a stop-start month for Young Guns, we are pleased to announce a return to action starting from yesterday afternoon.

A month can be a long time in football, so we’ve gathered together all the stories you might have missed out on since our last update. Some things never seem to change – The Reserves are still without a win in 2009 after back-to-back defeats to Tottenham. However, Sanchez Watt did score in the second fixture to break their goalless streak. Serial c**t David Bentley bagged a double, that after a 3-0 mauling at Underhill 5 days previous.

Six goals from Benik Afobe, five from Luke Freeman, two from Roarie Deacon and Zak Ansah, plus a Chuks Aneke strike saw off Portsmouth, Crystal Palace and Birmingham, whilst a point was earned from a draw with Tottenham as the Under 18’s romped their way through the closing stages of the season.

In the middle of all that, Steve Bould’s boys cruised into the F.A Youth Cup final with a convincing win over Manchester City in the second leg of the Semi-Final. Sanchez Watt proved he’s back to full fitness as the winger lashed home the opener 34 seconds after kick-off, and then put the tie beyond doubt 90 seconds after Kyle Bartley nodded the third of the evening. Jack Wilshere had earlier converted a penalty.

Steve Gatting will no doubt be a proud man after seeing almost all his squad turn out for the Under 18’s this season, but his new-look outfit was sent packing from the Nike Cup in the opening rounds. Attention has now turned to recruiting for next season.

Cheltenham’s Jamie Edge has travelled with the boys to the Atalanta Cup, and we’ll have some updates from that Tournament shortly. The midfielder has spent time with Manchester United, and comes after producing some magic for the Under 16’s in a trial at London Colney. Brazilian forward Wellington is also believed to have have the trip with a strong looking side being watched over by Gatting and Brady.

And that’s about it. We’d like to apologise for the absence of updates, and move to reassure readers that normal service has been resumed. Thanks for your continued support.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Debate – Has Kieran Gibbs Finally 'Made It'?

Arsenal fans always enjoy seeing youngsters who have come through the system ply their trade for the first team, and they’re always on the look out for the star who could finally ‘make it’. Kieran Gibbs is one player who has profited from the Youth setup, and in Gael Clichy’s absence, he’s had a decent run in the team. So in today’s culture of chopping and changing players, can we add Gibbs’ name to those who have developed into a first team player?

Six consecutive starts for Arsene Wenger’s side have brought some notable performances and moments. Clearing efforts off the line against Wigan, Chelsea and Liverpool flung Kieran into the spotlight. He also added an assist in the Cup Semi-Final against the Blues, and capped it off an amazing couple of weeks by marking Cristiano Ronaldo in the Champions League Semi-Final.

He should continue that left back role as the Gunners make the trip to Portsmouth tomorrow. It could be Gibbs’ last Premiership game as Clichy nears full fitness, but the impression made in the latter stages of the campaign will leave Wenger assured about the quality of his options in that position.

But back to the main question, has Kieran now ‘made it’? would you consider him now to be a first-team player? and do you trust him in the side? your comments are welcome.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Arsenal (2) V Man City (1) – Yth Cup (2nd Leg)- Preview

Arsenal’s F.A Youth Cup Semi-Final second leg clash with Manchester City is the fixture which prises Young Guns back into action, with a touch of irony due to the long wait for the much anticipated second leg – a month and 4 days after the pulsating first installment.

Alex Nimely-Tchuimeni’s first half strike looked like it would be decisive in a difficult clash, but a second half rally saw Jay Emmanuel-Thomas force an own goal, before Gilles Sunu was given enough time to lash home a late winner. It means the Gunners have a slim yet important advantage ahead of this evening’s return duel.

The Emirates Stadium plays host to the encounter, with a steady number of supporters expected to add a little spice to what promises to be an exciting evening of football.

Arsenal’s Cup regulars have been given extra time to prepare for this one after wrapping up the Group A title earlier in the month, and Bould will hope his decision to leave them out of competitive action will keep them fresh, and not rusty.

In terms of team news, James Shea should continue between the sticks, in front of a back four which is slowly becoming one of the most consistent in recent years. Coquelin and Frimpong will provide a shield for the more flamboyant Watt, Wilshere and Thomas, who will support lone front man Gilles Sunu.

Predicted Starting XI

Shea
Eastmond – Ayling – Bartley – Cruise
Frimpong – Coquelin
Watt – Wilshere – Thomas (c)
Sunu

Prediction – Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City (3-1 Aggregate)

Live Audio streaming will be available via Arsenal TV Online, with interviews before and after the game.  Away goals count, yet should the scores be level on full time, extra time and penalties will decide the winner at Emirates Stadium. It all gets underway from 7pm.

A Match Report will be available on the full time whistle, with ratings and analysis to follow later.

Article By – J.Sanderson

SoccerPro.com – Product Review

The fine people from SoccerPro.com have kindly donated two of their best selling items for us to test out. SoccerPro is one of the biggest and best football/soccer related stores. Whether it’s boots, replica kit, replica training gear or items for your local team, SP really is the one stop show.

So to the review. I selected two jackets to test. One of David Beckham’s excellent range and a superb offering from Nike in the form of their Dutch training jacket.

The Adidas David Beckham Jacket is firstly a superb looking garment. A mixture of white and gold gives a real silky and luxury feel. The jinked design of the jacket is also really classy. The fabric is almost waterproof and really light to wear. This is a perfect training item. The ClimaCool full-zipped top features embroidered David Beckham logo on left chest with embroidered Adidas brandmark on right chest.

Rating – 8/10

Up second is the Holland training jacket. With the David Beckham item being a tough act to follow, this surprisingly warm jacket has all the latest Nike clima-cool technology and looks awesome. Sporting Nike’s latest wave effect across the chest leading up to the neck, it is another good looking garment. The material is easily damaged if you spill any drinks on it but the overall feel is great. Fitted with a fleece-like warm inside, Nike really have got all covered angles covered with this jacket.

Rating – 8/10

Check out both this items and much, much more over at SoccerPro.com.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Blackwood Returns After Double Trial Failure

Arsenal defender Anton Blackwood has now returned to North London after failing to impress both Fulham and Crystal Palace during trails.

The17-year-old is out of contract in the summer, and the early signs clearly suggest that the versatile former Northampton Town defender will be on his way come August.

Fulham fielded the prospect in two Under 18 League fixtures, including a 5-1 defeat to Arsenal. He also turned out for Crystal Palace 3 days after the completion of his spell at Motspur Park, but the Eagles were equally unimpressed.

It comes after a frustrating campaign which has seen Blackwood – a former 100m sprinter – make several mistakes for Steve Bould’s Under 18’s, and subsequently fail to make Neil Banfield’s depleted Reserves. However, a bench place for the Youth Cup run will no doubt have softened the blow.

Anton will now be in contention for the forthcoming fixtures, but expect him to be back out on trials in the future.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Arsenal V Tottenham – Reserves – Match Preview

Neil Banfield’s struggling Reserves are back in action this evening, as the first of two North London derby’s offers his young charges the opportunity to break their recent baron run.

Arsenal are yet to win in 2009, and are without a goal in 4 fixtures, but form counts for nothing when it comes to NLD’s. The Tottenham double header means it will be 5 consecutive games against London clubs, and despite the awful recent run of form, the close proximity of the sides has made for a decent atmosphere for such a level of football.

In terms of team news, Spurs have followed the Gunners in loaning out several of their starlets, including leading marksman Jon Obika. Arsenal don’t include Czech skipper Tomas Rosicky, but they do benefit from the slight experience of Fran Merida, Amaury Bischoff and stand in captain Mark Randall. Wenger also moved to deny reports that Rosicky could be back for the reverse clash in 5 days time.

“Tomas Rosicky, at the moment, is not close to coming back. We have to be very patient,”

James Shea will start in goal, as Neil Banfield names only one goalkeeper in the squad. In front will be the Youth Cup back four, including Craig Eastmond who had a nightmare in the cup game where Amos Townsend ran riot.

Predicted Starting XI

Shea
Eastmond – Ayling – Bartley – Cruise
Watt – Randall (c) – Merida – Thomas
Bischoff
Sunu

Prediction – Arsenal 1-0 Tottenham

Coverage is live via Arsenal TV and TV Online, as well as Setanta Sports. Kick off is at 7pm GMT.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Afobe Joins Cissé & Cole In Charity Photo Shoot

Arsenal and England youngster Benik Afobe joined fellow strikers Djibril Cissé and Carlton Cole for a promotional photo-shoot this afternoon for the charity Keep A Child Alive.

The charity is designed to provide anti-retroviral treatment, care and support services to children and their families with HIV & AIDS in Africa. Engaging the developed world is an important part of raising funds, so promotional work involving high profiles stars is important.

The trio of forwards are all of African descent, and teamed up with Global Ambassador Alicia Keys to help raise awareness. The photos will be offered to newspapers and football magazines to help raise further money.

The three players each represent a target audience, but Benik’s inclusion is significant as he’s just 16-years-old and a relative unknown.

We’ll add the pictures to the site when they become available, but in the mean time, make sure you check out the Keep A Child Alive website.

With thanks to Phillip for this news by e-mail.

Article By – J.Sanderson

Portsmouth Upset As Traoré Back At Arsenal

Armand Traoré was present at Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Manchester City on Saturday afternoon, after returning to North London for treatment on his ankle injury despite Portsmouth not sanctioning the arrangement.

The 20-year-old winger was in action for the French Under 21’s during the International break – where he played the full 90 minutes in the first game, and then 80 minutes against England before a sprained ankle ended his evening early.

He returned to the South coast for initial treatment, but was spotted among the interested parties at the Emirates Stadium for the 2-0 victory. Armand left the ground via the players car park shortly after full time.

Traoré has had an unhappy time with Pompey since Harry Redknapp left for Tottenham, and then Tony Adams was relieved of his duties after a handful of fixtures.

New boss Paul Hart was expecting the youngster to be watching their clash with Hull City, so it no doubt came as a surprise that he had returned to London.

Many believe the Frenchman’s future lies away from Arsenal, but speaking earlier in the week, the former Monaco trainee spoke of his determination to succeed with the Gunners.

“First of all I am going to return to Arsenal to work hard.

“Then I will try to play much more, and why not break into the team in a few seasons’ time? life is about patience and what I am going to do is remain patient for a few seasons and then we will see.”

“All I can tell you is that I am determined to make it with Arsenal.”

It’s currently unknown what if any punishment Portsmouth take with Armand.

Article By – J.Sanderson