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Portsmouth vs Arsenal: 3 youngsters Mikel Arteta should start

By Kian Long

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: Reiss Nelson of Arsenal celebrates scoring the opening goal during the FA Cup Third Round match between Arsenal and Leeds United at Emirates Stadium on January 6, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: Reiss Nelson of Arsenal celebrates scoring the opening goal during the FA Cup Third Round match between Arsenal and Leeds United at Emirates Stadium on January 6, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
(Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images) /

3. Ainsley Maitland-Niles

I don’t know, but it feels like a century since Maitland-Niles last started for Arsenal. I did some research and it turns out his last start for Arsenal was against Sheffield United. Remember, the draw? I mean, that doesn’t narrow it down at all.

Maitland-Niles spends most of his time as a full-back, although I think he is better as a midfielder. In this match, he will likely come in to replace Hector Bellerin who, between me and you, was probably the worst player on the pitch against Olympiakos.

Maitland-Niles is a composed player that likes to dribble the ball forward. He will likely be pushing forward, although, he will be aware that Arteta likes to attack down the left rather than his side.

Maitland-Niles has matured into an excellent defender so he will be well-equipped to see off any potential Portsmouth attacks.

To conclude, I don’t think Arteta will weaken his side too much. This is the beauty of having first-team ready youngsters like those mentioned and Joe Willock and Gabriel Martinelli.

The FA Cup is an important competition for Arsenal this season and Arteta will trust in his youngsters to come up with the goods.

How do you think Arsenal will lineup against Portsmouth?

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