Revealed: Teenage Nigerian goalkeeper travelled with Arsenal first team for Brighton clash

Teenage Nigerian goalkeeper Brian Okonkwo travelled with the Arsenal first-team squad for their 1-1 draw against Brighton on Saturday evening, allnigeriasoccer.com can confirm.

The 19-year-old trained with the senior squad ahead of the fixture and impressed manager Mikel Arteta enough to secure a spot in the traveling squad.

Okonkwo was the third-choice goalkeeper behind David Raya and Neto, who served as the backup on the bench.  

Though he did not crack the matchday squad, as neither Raya nor Neto sustained injuries during the pre-match warm-up, his inclusion in the traveling squad highlights Mikel Arteta's growing trust in his abilities.

Okonkwo played the full duration of Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Leyton Orient in the EFL Trophy and also completed the entire 90 minutes in their 3-0 loss to Colchester United.

Additionally, the young shot-stopper has featured for Arsenal's U21 side in the Premier League 2, notably providing an assist during a commanding 4-1 win against Aston Villa.  

His continued involvement with the first team signals his steady progression and the possibility of more opportunities at the senior level in the near future.

Nathan Butler-Oyedeji was an unused substitute against the Seagulls while Ethan Nwaneri was named in the starting lineup for the second consecutive game but suffered an injury during the first half, leading to his substitution at half time.  

Brian is the younger brother of Wrexham goalie Arthur Okonkwo, who is on the radar of Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen. 

Adeyemi Adewale

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