Mikel Arteta has gone some way explaining the decision to include Charlie Patino in the squad against Sunderland on Tuesday evening.
Arsenal faced the Black Cats at the Emirates in the Carabao Cup and there were some surprise decisions made.
With fixtures piling up, Arteta has decided to bring in some academy talents and there are not many as exciting as Patino at the club.
The attacking midfielder has been wowing coaches in training and has been given a chance to shine tonight, albeit from the bench.
The 17-year-old has drawn comparisons to Jack Wilshere, though many believe he will go on to have a much more impactful career than the Englishman.
In fact, he has been noted as the top player from the academy - while he could go on to be a superstar for Arsenal.
And Arteta has admitted he is looking forward to seeing the teenager in action, explaining his decision to give him a chance against Sunderland.
The Spaniard said: “He (Patino) is a player with a lot of potential so let’s see tonight.”
Patino is one of several youngsters to be get an opportunity tonight, with Folarin Balogun and Eddie Nketiah in the starting line-up.
Arteta added: “He (Balogun) does everyday what he has been doing everyday. He will have more opportunities. We continue how we have, for tonight's game he’s (Auba) not selected.
Nketiah has been strongly linked with an exit in January with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.
Leeds United were interested in the summer, as well as Crystal Palace, but former Gunners star Paul Merson believes the forward should stay at the Emirates.
He said: “The lad never lets you down. He comes into the team and knows he’s not going to play against Norwich on Boxing Day.
“But, he’ll still turn up tonight and put in a performance. That’s what I like about him.
"He’s hungry and there’s talk that he doesn’t want to sign the contract. Which I can understand as he wants to play.
“He’s at Arsenal, an unbelievable football club, you’re young and have time so be patient. He’s a great finisher, goalscorer and has good pace.
“If I was his agent I would be signing again. I left Arsenal, it’s different. This is an unbelievable football club. You only realise when you leave."
