First squad involvement for talented fullback of Nigerian descent as Arsenal lose to Liverpool

Published: January 21, 2022

Promising fullback of Nigerian descent Ryan Alebiosu received his first call-up to Arsenal's senior team as they were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool in the semifinal of the Carabao Cup at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday night.

Manager Mikel Arteta rewarded the Anglo-Nigerian for his excellent displays for the Gunners development squad this season by including him in the matchday 20.

Alebiosu was one of five academy players that monitored proceedings from the bench, the others being Karl Hein, Salah Oulad M'Hand, Charlie Patino and Mika Biereth.

With Arsenal chasing the game, it was always going to be a tall order for the Spanish coach to hand a debut to Alebiosu off the bench.

The right-back and right winger has directly participated in eight goals (1 goal 7 assists) in fourteen appearances combined for Arsenal U21 and U23 sides in 2021-2022.

Diogo Jota gave Liverpool the lead with a low effort from the edge of the area in the 20th minute and netted the clincher with thirteen minutes to go when he dinked the ball over the Arsenal goalkeeper.

The Reds will face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup showpiece at Wembley on Sunday, February 27.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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