We know that Arsene Wenger loves nothing more than giving a young player a chance, so hopefully we'll see an Irish U17 international get his first-team debut in the not too distant future.
Eagle-eyed Arsenal fans have pointed out that 16 year old Irishman Marcus Agyei-Tabi is training with the Arsenal first team. Agyei-Tabi has represented Ireland at U17 level and was in the squad at the UEFA U17 European Championships back in May, and has been rubbing shoulders with the likes of Theo Walcott, Alexis Sanchez, and Aaron Ramsey at Arsenal's training centre.
#Arsenal youngsters Marcus Agyei-Tabi, Donyell Malen and Glen Kamara all trained with the first team yesterday. pic.twitter.com/z6YqH5qAOT
— Read Arsenal (@ReadArsenalFC) September 29, 2015
16-year-old Marcus Agyei-Tabi got involved in training with the first team today.
#Arsenal pic.twitter.com/geVros7MxE
— Read Arsenal (@ReadArsenalFC) September 25, 2015
Agyei-Tabi wore number 6 for Ireland in the U17 Euros, and the Arsenal.com player profile explains that he is a very versatile midfielder:
The Irish youngster made 12 appearances for Frans de Kat’s side last season, which included seven starts and one goal.
Comfortable in possession and able to unlock defences with intricate passes, Marcus is capable of playing on either flank, behind the striker or in a deeper central midfield role.
A Republic of Ireland youth international, the promising midfielder has represented his country up to under-17 level.
Exciting news, a quick look on twitter offers only positive reviews from those who have seen him in action.
Was impressed by Agyei-Tabi when he came on. Composed in possession, good at winning the ball back and very tactically aware.
— Jeorge Bird (@jeorgebird) September 29, 2015
Agyei-Tabi has progressed steadily through the
club’s Hale End academy and made an instant
impact for Arsenal for their U18s last season.
— James Machariah (@mashdolski) September 25, 2015
Marcus Agyei-Tabi balling out for Ireland U17s. Best player I've played with & against. World class potential.
— Simeon (@simeonnnnnnn) May 13, 2015
Marcus Agyei-Tabi is an absolute baller for the Irish U17s. Heard his name here first @FAIreland #FAI #U17Euro
— Dave O'Connell (@daveoconnell46) May 13, 2015
Could Marcus Agyei-Tabi become the first @FAIreland player to play at @Arsenal under Arsene Wenger?
— Willie Gannon (@WillieGannon) May 11, 2015
Fingers crossed, and best of luck to the lad. One to keep an eye on for sure.
