Scouting Report: Chuba Akpom (Arsenal)

 

This article is on my favourite Arsenal youngster: Chuba Akpom.

Akpom is a tall, young, talented centre-forward, who has bags of potential. In my opinion, he could be a natural heir to the famous no.14 shirt worn by Thierry Henry. They’re similar in stature, positioning, ability and playing style.

He likes to play off the last defender, and with his height and strength, he likes passes put in behind so he can power through and finish with great finesse. He has very quick feet, as well. These combined make him a huge threat in many ways, making him a dynamic striker and nightmare for defences.

He wasn’t expecting to play in the reserves this season; he quoted “I thought I’d play in the U18’s! I was surprised when I got the call up for the Next Gen(eration) Series!” There were many doubters of this call up, but the 17 year old has proven them wrong, bagging two goals in the opening NextGen game.

He does have a problem, however, and a fairly big one at that: Consistency. This is what drives fans mad; Theo Walcott for one example. He seems to be gaining more consistency, though, which the stats are proving. He scored 3 goals in four games for England U17s in the Nordic Cup last season. Impressive. Last year, though, he bagged just two goals in 15 appearances.

Described as “tall and creative” on Arsenal.com, as well as a great finisher by myself, who does this remind you of? A player who wore the no.14, and was French by any chance? Thought so.

He’s loved by many of the staff, especially Steve Bould who always played him when coaching the youth and reserves manager Terry Burton, who was quoted saying that “Akpom was excellent for a 16 year old” back in July after a friendly against Boreham Wood, as well as Arséne Wenger himself. Not bad for a 17 year old, don’t you think?

In two NextGen games, being among the youngest of the tournament, he’s grabbed two goals and an assist. I’d love to see him play in the Capital One Cup and I’m sure I’m not the only one, too.

With Afobe on loan, Chamakh our back up striker *sighs*, I wouldn’t put it past Wenger to give this wonderkid a go.

Chuba Akpom. The future Arsenal and England star. Mark my words.

 

Written by Deano Spyrou

Follow him on Twitter @DeanoAFC44

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