Giant young goalkeeper of Nigerian descent named in Arsenal's matchday squad vs Man Utd

Published: December 02, 2021

Promising goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has been picked by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta in his matchday squad for the Premier League meeting against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Thursday night.

The 20-year-old has climbed the pecking order of goalkeepers to second choice behind England international Aaron Ramsdale following the unavailability of Bernd Leno.

After the Gunners' final workout at London Colney on Wednesday, Okonkwo dropped a hint on social media that he was going to be involved in some capacity against the Red Devils.

Standing at 6ft 5in, well developed physically and labelled a giant young goalkeeper on his profile on Arsenal's official website , the Anglo-Nigerian was promoted to Arsenal's first team on a permanent basis after putting pen to paper on a new long-term deal in the summer.

Okonkwo, who is probably the most highly rated Nigeria-eligible goalkeeper under the age of 21 in the whole of Europe, made his unofficial debut for Arsenal's first team in a pre-season friendly with Hibernian and was also given minutes against Scottish champions Rangers.

In the current season, the Hale End Academy graduate has been getting match practice by playing for Arsenal's development squad in the Premier League 2 and Papa John's Trophy.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : arsenal.com

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