What Arsenal coach Arteta said about Nwaneri ahead of Carabao Cup fixture against Bolton

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has praised Nigerian midfielder Ethan Nwaneri ahead of the Carabao Cup fixture at home to Bolton Wanderers at the Emirates tomorrow.

 The 17-year-old has been involved with the first team since the start of the season and has become a permanent member of Arteta's side, following his exhibition of readiness to play top-flight football.

With skipper Martin Ødegaard to contend with for a spot in the team, it has come as no surprise that he has found game time difficult to come by, making just one appearance so far.

The Norwegian midfielder got injured during the last international break, prompting suggestions that the Hale End Academy product could get more minutes but that hasn't been the case.

He made a cameo appearance against Tottenham Hotspur and was an unused substitute during the enthralling clash with Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday.

Asked about Nwaneri and Lewis Myles-Skelly's involvement with the first-team during his pre-match conference ahead of tomorrow's tie with Bolton, Arteta revealed how impressed he has been with the two youngsters

"I'm very proud of them. They are dealing with a situation that probably they didn't expect. They have had the chance to play in two of the most historic and difficult grounds in the Premier League and they both responded really well," he was quoted as saying by the club's official website

In response to the character of the duo, the Spanish tactician also spoke highly of them, stating their demonstration of the will to succeed.

"Those two are really pushy, really demanding! They want everything! They want more and more information. 

"They love it, you can tell them, they are so passionate about everything. They see the opportunity and want to grab it with both hands. They are great to work with."

With the busy schedule ahead and the quality of the opposition, Nwaneri will be hoping to make his first-ever start for Arsenal and his maiden appearance in the Carabao Cup.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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