First squad involvement for young Arsenal goalkeeper Okonkwo in UEL clash vs Olympiakos

Published: March 18, 2021

England youth international of Nigerian descent Arthur Okonkwo has been included in an Arsenal matchday squad for the first time in his career.

The 2001-born glovesman trained with Arsenal first teamers this week and manager Mikel Arteta has rewarded him with a place on the bench in Thursday evening's Europa League round of 16 second leg clash against Olympiakos at the Emirates Stadium.

If first-choice keeper Bernd Leno suffers an injury in the pre-match warmup or during the game, Okonkwo is unlikely to taste action against the Greek opponents as he is behind Brighton & Hove loanee Mathew Ryan in the pecking order of goalkeepers.

The Anglo-Nigerian youngster has been picked over Estonia international Karl Hein, who was an unused substitute in six Europa League matches this season.

Okonkwo spent his formative years as a footballer with Hampstead Academy and Lindus Park before joining Arsenal following a successful trial.

He will wear the number 53 shirt, if he makes his first senior appearance against Olympiakos.

Mikel Arteta has handed debuts to two players of Nigerian descent in Folarin Balogun and Miguel Azeez in Europa League matches this season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com