Emerson Nwaneri was among four teenagers of Nigerian descent who featured for Arsenal U18s in a pre-season friendly at the Megger Community Stadium, Crabble on Saturday.

The young Gunners suffered a 2-0 defeat to the first team of Isthmian League Premier Division side Dover Athletic.

Emerson, the younger brother of Arsenal first teamer and Nigeria Football Federation target Ethan Nwaneri, entered the game as a substitute in the second half.

Goalkeeper Khari Ranson, who recently signed a new deal with the Gunners, Samuel Onyekachukwu and Josh Ogunnaike were named in the starting XI.

A versatile midfielder capable of playing at right-back, Emerson is currently in his final year as a schoolboy and was part of the Arsenal squad that won the Premier League Floodlit Shield last season, defeating Blackburn Rovers in the final.

The promising teenager was also invited to an England U15 Talent Identification camp last year, underlining his growing reputation.

Dover Athletic opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Luke Baptiste tucked home a rebound after George Nikaj's effort struck the post, before Francis Mampolo secured the win from the penalty spot midway through the second half.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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