Pre-Match Report

U19s: Galatasaray v Arsenal - Preview

Tyrell Robinson

Arsenal’s injuries have filled plenty of column inches this season but it's possible to find positives in such adversity. After all, one player's setback is another man's opportunity.

With the first team short of defenders, Calum Chambers has taken the chance to establish himself.

Drop down to Arsenal’s second string and you have a similar situation. In the absence of Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill and Marc Bola, winger Tyrell Robinson impressed when he made his under-21s debut at left back in a 4-0 win at Brighton.

"I know I have more of a chance at under-21 level if I play left back with Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill being injured"

Tyrell Robinson

Now, ahead of Arsenal Under-19s’ final Youth League group stage game against Galatasaray, Robinson believes his new position gives him a better chance of making his first European start for Steve Gatting and Frans de Kat’s side.

“Playing at left back was quite good,” Robinson told Arsenal.com. “It’s helped me quite a lot with my crossing and has given me a better idea of where everyone is, so it’s good for my game.

“I played there once or twice when I was younger but this is the first time I’ve played there this season, and I know I have more of a chance at under-21 level if I play left back with Brandon being injured.

“I feel like I’m progressing. Frans de Kat and the other coaches have been helping me along and it’s been nice to get a few minutes in the Youth League this season.

Tyrell Robinson in action against Brighton

Tyrell Robinson in action against Brighton

 

“It’s a useful experience playing against other good players. It’s a lot different as well because European football can either be quicker or slower than league football. You have to change your game a bit.

“The older boys have also been helping me to get more confident because I’m not that confident. When I play with the older players sometimes I get a bit nervous because I’m quite a quiet person. Players like George Dobson are really helpful because they talk throughout the game and they give you confidence.”

 

George Dobson

George Dobson

 

 

 Arsenal sit top of Group D and can secure qualification with a victory over Galatasaray, who are three points behind the Gunners but still have a game in hand after their encounter with Anderlecht was postponed.

Gatting and De Kat's team beat the Turkish side 5-1 when they met at Boreham Wood in October - and five different youngsters got on the scoresheet for the young Gunners.

Live updates will be on the @Arsenal Twitter feed from 12.55pm (UK time). 

 

Dan Crowley scores against Galatasaray

Dan Crowley scores against Galatasaray

 

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