Ife Ibrahim shows he should be a regular starter for Arsenal U21s

Playing above your age group is usually a sign that a player is very talented and Ife Ibrahim could potentially be achieving that objective on a regular basis this season.

Last campaign Ibrahim was one of the most consistent performers for Arsenal U18s as he provided authority at the base of the midfield.

In the early stages of this season the 17-year-old has flitted between the U21 and U18 squads.

However, it was notable that Ibrahim wasn’t involved for the U18s against Peterborough United in the Premier League Cup this week, which indicates that he is perhaps being held back to start for the U21s at home to Brighton tomorrow.

Ibrahim impressed as a substitute on his competitive U21s debut against Fulham and followed that up with an assured display against Nottingham Forest as he came on for the injured Harrison Dudziak just before half time.

Dudziak is a talented player but seems more suited to playing in an advanced midfield position than as a defensive midfielder.

Ibrahim, in contrast, thrives in breaking up play and also has the physical qualities to cope at U21 level.

It will be intriguing to see how much game time Ibrahim will receive with the U21s this season and if he starts tomorrow night he will be determined to seize his opportunity.