Why 18-year-old Goal Machine Balogun Shouldn't Worry Over Pre-season Snub

Arsenal's 18-year-old striker Folarin Balogun was one of the most in-form youngsters last season based on his impressive goalscoring record.

The Nigeria-eligible striker scored more than 30 goals in all competitions for Arsenal's youth teams last season and caught the eye of coach Freddie Ljungberg who couldn't help but introduce the player into the U23 setup.

He featured in five Premier League 2 fixtures before the end of the season, scoring one goal in the process.

Seeing Balogun's attacking prowess, the Gunners fans tipped him to be part of Unai Emery's plan for next season but they were stunned when Unai Emery snubbed the youngster while revealing his pre-season squad list.

As much as the youngster has every reason to be emotionally disappointed, Unai Emery's snub shouldn't affect his determination and his growth.

Balogun is just 18, hence, he still has massive chances of featuring in subsequent pre-season games.

Pre-season tour, just like training session, provides Unai Emery with an opportunity to see some of his players in action before the start of the season.

Balogun has trained with the first team under Emery's watch, therefore, the youngster shouldn't worry about  his inability to make the Gunners pre-season camp because Emery already knows his capabilities.

The Nigeria-eligible striker only need to continue his steady growth at the Emirates Stadium to enhance his chances of becoming a regular figure for the North London club in no time.