Arsenal

Mikel Arteta names the Arsenal youngster who really impressed him in win over Bolton – Not Nwaneri

Arsenal have booked themselves a spot in the new round of the Carabao Cup following a comfortable victory over Bolton Wanderers.

Mikel Arteta‘s side were able to progress with a 5-1 win over the League One opposition on Wednesday night which provided some shock inclusions in the starting XI.

With the Gunners coming up against lesser opposition, it provided Arteta with an opportunity to play around with his Arsenal side.

There were a number of youngsters to come into the starting XI on Wednesday night with Arteta also having to navigate some injuries and suspensions.

But there was one player, in particular, that impressed the Arsenal manager on his debut for the senior side.

Mikel Arteta left really impressed by ‘composed’ Arsenal youngster

Following the game against Manchester City on the weekend, Arsenal had been left with some selection choices for the game in the cup.

Leandro Trossard was left suspended for the game on Wednesday night having been sent off against the reigning champions.

However, there was a more serious concern for Arteta with David Raya picking up an injury issue in the game at the Etihad.

And that saw 16-year-old goalkeeper Jack Porter get the nod from the Arsenal boss on Wednesday evening to make his debut for the senior side.

It was a performance which impressed Arteta with the Arsenal boss admitting the youngster’s family were taken by surprise to hear of his start.

Well, we told him yesterday and he was over the moon straight away,” Arteta told the media after the game.

“I think he spoke to his family and they weren’t prepared for that. It’s a big step, it’s a big occasion for them and I think they were nervous about it.

“But I think he reacted really well, he was really composed yesterday in training and today as well. His teammates really helped him as well on that. What an experience and what a way to break a record.”

Neto will be available to play this weekend

The Gunners may now be left sweating over the fitness of Raya ahead of their game on the weekend against Leicester City.

If the Spaniard is unavailable again, Arteta will not have to rely on the 16-year-old Porter this time with their summer signing, Neto, available for selection.

The Bournemouth loanee was eligible to play last night having already played in the competition for his parent side prior to joining Arsenal.

Regardless of whether Neto is able to cover this weekend, the Gunners will have everything crossed for Raya’s fitness after a stunning start to the season from him.

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