Arsenal players have been back at London Colney in midweek, training ahead of the crunch Premier League clash with Liverpool.
The Gunners are set to face off with one of their biggest rivals for the title this season, having lost out to the Reds last time.
Injuries to Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard remain a concern for Mikel Arteta, as there are questions over the availability within his Arsenal team.
He is, however, boosted by the arrival of Eberechi Eze, who signed from Crystal Palace in the past few days.
The new star was present in training ahead of the game, but he wasn’t the only one making an appearance.
Max Dowman was one of the Arsenal academy core present for the session, as things have ramped up for the big game.
- READ MORE: Alan Smith says Arsenal already have a perfect Martin Odegaard replacement after his injury
Seven Arsenal academy stars present in first-team training session
While it was an opportunity for Eze to show the rest of the Arsenal squad what he is all about, there were some other stars looking to impress, too.
Seven players from the Arsenal academy were present for Mikel Arteta, as he gave them an opportunity to come up against the current senior stars.
Max Dowman’s debut for the first team was impressive, and he continues to train with the side for the time being.
Beyond him is another impressive youngster in Marli Salmon, the young centre-back who has been playing above his age group in the youth ranks.
Louie Copley, Andre Harriman-Annous, and Demiane Agustien also featured, as they look to make their mark after stepping up from the under-21s.
Forward duo Ismeal Kabia and Charles Sagoe Jr may be open to loans this summer, but they currently remain part of the training setup.
It’s a chance for them to impress and gain some valuable experience, even if not all of them don’t go on to be regulars for the side.
Marli Salmon could be the next breakthrough talent at Arsenal
While Dowman may be taking all of the headlines, it’s one of his peers who could join him in the future in the Arsenal senior team.
Salmon, aged just 15, has been playing for both the under-18s and under-21s over the past season in the backline.
His rapid rise could see him take the next step in the near future, though it is often harder for defenders to break through at such a young age.
Looking at someone like Ayden Heaven, however, who came through the Arsenal ranks, it’s clear that there is a chance for a young defender to make an impact.
Salmon could well be next in line, but there is still plenty of time for him to reach that point.
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