Osman Kamara’s return from injury gives Arsenal U21s a boost

At first-team level there has been much focus of late on the impact made by Arsenal’s substitutes and the U21s are also looking to make good use of the various options at their disposal.

As the campaign got underway the U21 squad was somewhat threadbare in terms of depth but matters are beginning to improve in that regard, with Osman Kamara’s return from injury helping significantly.

The winger, who is now in his second year as a professional, missed the majority of pre-season through injury but looked sharp when he came on in the victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.

Deployed on the right flank despite previously mainly playing on the left, Kamara was a threat with his direct runs and technical ability.

The 19-year-old will be aware that this is a crucial campaign in terms of determining his future at the club and also that there is much competition for places out wide in the U21 squad.

On the right flank the U21s can call upon Seb Ferdinand and new signing Archie Stevens, while Charles Sagoe Jr (who has a wealth of experience at this level) is the main starter on the left wing, with Stevens also capable of playing there.

Furthermore, there are also exciting prospects from the U18s who are looking to step up such as Brando Bailey-Joseph.

All Kamara can do is focus on his own game and look to stay fit throughout the season.

Previously a regular source of goals at U18 level, Kamara has scored just twice in 19 U21 appearances, although he has mainly featured as a substitute and injuries have often disrupted his momentum.

Towards the end of last season Kamara gained experience on the international stage as he featured for Sierra Leone at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 19-year-old is now ready to make an impact at club level and seize any opportunity that he is afforded.