After missing out on automatic promotion to the under-21 Division One League, Arsenal’s under-21 team will host Blackburn in a semi-final play-off at the Emirates stadium tonight.
The under-21s have had an impressive season this year, but narrowly missed out on automatic promotion. Steve Gatting’s side only needed three points from their remaining two games; successive losses to Swansea and West Brom, however, Arsenal missed out on the chance to finish top of the table, and clinch automatic qualification.
Arsenal must now beat Blackburn, and win the final the Division two play-offs in order to gain promotion.
Steve Gatting has managed a much improved under-21 campaign this year. At any youth level, progression is key. Not only have the under-21s improved their performances, but the individual players have developed.
Star striker Stephy Mavididi, has been one of the top scorers in the League this year, and at 17-years-old, is an excellent prospect. Moreover, Chris Willock has earned praise from Arsene Wenger, while Krystian Bielik likewise, has caught the attention for his impressive performances.
As Steve Gatting told Arsenal.com, this will be a huge experience for the players, especially if they gain promotion.
We are looking forward to it. It is a game that will give the boys good experience playing at Emirates Stadium in a game that matters as much as this.
When you win games during the season, you get that experience of playing in bigger matches such as this. We want to be in Division One with the top clubs like the Manchester teams.
Arsenal have faced Balckburn twice this season, winning 3-2, but also losing 1-0 in the return fixture in April. It seems tonight will be a tough test for the young Gunners.
