Arteta promotes 2002-born defender of Nigerian descent to first team training pre-Brentford

Arsenal stepped up their preparations for their Premier League meeting with Brentford with another training session held at London Colney on Tuesday, February 15.

Manager Mikel Arteta promoted Irish-Nigerian defender Mazeed Ogungbo to first team training and three other academy players Mauro Bandeira, James Hillson and Jonathan Dinzeyi were also spotted during the workout.

The 2002-born Ogungbo was part of the team that traveled to Dubai, United Arab Emirates for a warm weather training camp in January, so it came as a surprise that the Spanish football tactician opted to name another young Nigeria-eligible center back Zach Awe in his matchday squad for the visit to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Ogungbo's most recent game for the Gunners development squad was against West Brom in the Premier League Cup on Monday, coming on at half-time to replace Rekik.

The 19-year-old has captained Arsenal at U18 and U23 levels - a testament to his leadership qualities.

Ogungbo signed his first professional contract with Arsenal in August 2021.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel