Manager Mikel Arteta promoted teenage left-back of Nigerian descent Josh Ogunnaike to first team training on Friday, on the eve of the London derby against Calvin Bassey's Fulham, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

The Spanish tactician ran the rule over the 18-year-old defender during today's training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre in London Colney.

Josh Ogunnaike was invited to train with the first team again, with Netherlands international Jurrien Timber ruled out of the matchday 35 fixture due to injury. 

Although he is eligible to feature in the Premier League as an U21 player, the London-born Nigerian fullback has yet to be included in a squad for a game in the top-flight.

Ogunnaike joined the Gunners' Hale End Academy at the age of 13 and he's now in the second year of his scholarship. 

An attack-minded left-back, he has made significant progress this season, playing consistently for the development squad even though he is eligible for the U18s.

Arsenal have the opportunity to move six points clear at the top when they meet the Cottagers on Saturday as Manchester City play Everton on Monday.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: arsenal.com