Arsenal begin their League Cup campaign against Coventry City Wednesday at the Emirates Stadium, and Arsene Wenger is sure to propel some of his youngsters into the starting XI.
Even if Wenger has never won the League Cup, it does not stop the Frenchman from giving a run out to the exciting and talented crop of youngsters at his disposal. While some of the senior players like Andrey Arshavin will also be involved, here is a look at a few of the young players to keep an eye out on.
Serge Gnabry (17): Wenger rates this kid pretty highly and the German teenager is seen as one of the brightest prospects at Arsenal. The 17-year-old joined the club last summer from Stuttgart and has already made quite a mark for the under-18 and under-21 sides.
Blessed with vision, technical ability and power, expect the youngster to turn a few heads and emit a few 'wows' from the crowd.
Hector Bellerin (17): While players from Barcelona are met with a certain amount of consternation now from the Arsenal fans, after Cesc Fabregas' departure, in Bellerin, the Gunners have a right-back that loves to go forward.
Formerly a winger, the defender has great energy and skill, and along with another former Barcelona youngster - Jon Toral - has been putting in some very good performances for the under-21 side.
Nico Yennaris (19): There is nothing better to a Gooner, than actually watching another Gooner strut his stuff at the club he loves. Yennaris is Arsenal through and through and is sure to have a big impact soon.
He has been employed as a right-back by Wenger in the past, but is essentially a ball-winning central midfielder, although his talents don't just end there. Like most Arsenal players, he is extremely adept with the ball at his feet, and almost always makes good decisions.
Emmanuel Frimpong (20): Most Arsenal fans will be aware of the defensive midfielder, but with the youngster returning from a long-term injury, it will be interesting to see how he handles the situation. Known to be a bit hot-headed, Frimpong has power and pace to his game, and with time and added discipline will grow into the defensive midfield position. He is expected to be on the bench for the Coventry match.
Ignasi Miquel (20): Another Barcelona youngster, who got a fair amount of game time at Arsenal last season. A central defender by trade, Miquel can also play at left-back. Good on the ball, but is a little mistake-prone. However, he is bound to get better with more experience.
Kris Olsson: Another gifted playmaker in Arsenal's squad, Olsson has the ability to pick the killer pass, as well as distribute the ball to the right areas. Capable of playing in an advanced position as well as a little deeper in midfield, Olsson has composure beyond his years.
