Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has challenged Chuba Akpom to show he is ready for a regular place in the first team squad after the 19-year-old forward netted a hat-trick in the 4-0 win over a Singapore Select XI in the Barclays Asia Trophy.
Akpom made a handful of appearances for the Gunners last season, before ending the campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest.
The England youth international caught the eye during Wednesday’s pre-season tour opener, putting Arsenal in front on 30 minutes.
Midfielder Jack Wilshere scored a penalty on the hour, before Akpom also netted from the spot on 76 minutes then quickly completed his treble with a powerful header.
“It is down to performance and attitude. He has that grade to make between being a big talent and after an efficient talent week in, week out. That’s of course the target,” Wenger said, quoted on the club’s official website, www.arsenal.com.
“That’s up to him (on his role for the new season). How much (will he play)? I don’t know, but I just believe that it’s an encouragement to do well and to work even harder.
“He is a young player and it can lift his confidence. The confidence in the dressing room that you sense from the other players is important as well and that can help him. Let’s not forget it’s a friendly. He’s a good talent, but he has to work and show that in [the big] games.”
—
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
