Pre-Match Report

U-23s: Arsenal v Man City - Preview

THE STORY SO FAR

Our under-23s go into Monday night's game off the back of confidence-boosting wins over London rivals Chelsea and Tottenham.

The 4-1 victory over the Blues and north London derby triumph has seen us rise to fourth in the Premier League 2 table ahead of the visit of Manchester City.

Victory in this game, and defeat for Liverpool at home to Chelsea, would see us continue our climb up to third in the table.

So far this season no team has drawn less matches than our under-23s, with Steve Gatting’s side sharing the spoils just once in their 18 games thus far.
 

THE OPPOSITION

Manchester City currently hold a 10-point lead over us in the Premier League 2 table.

The Citizens are on an eight-game unbeaten streak, having avoided defeat since a 1-0 loss at Everton in November.

Since that result, City have scored 23 times, with 14 of those goals coming in the last four matches.

Victory would send them top of the table if league leaders Everton lose at Derby and there is a seven-goal swing.
 

ONE TO WATCH

In recent weeks Ben Sheaf has become more assured in the centre of defence, as he continues to make the transition from central midfield.

The 19-year-old exudes a calm control over the backline and in the last few outings he has been handed the captain’s armband.

His ability to bring the ball out from the back and launch attacks with his range of passing makes him an asset in both halves of the pitch.

 

Ben Sheaf

 

 

LAST TIME WE MET

Rodney Kongolo’s first-half strike was all that separated the two sides when they met at Etihad Stadium back in September.

In just the second game of the season, Gatting fielded a side that featured Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Glen Kamara as the midfield pairing.

Maitland-Niles was closest to finding the net for the Gunners, hitting the post and proving a handful throughout.

Ultimately though, Kongolo’s controlled effort after a one-two with Aaron Nemane was enough to down our youngsters.
 

FROM THE ARCHIVES

 

FOLLOW THE ACTION

Monday night's game will be streamed LIVE on Arsenal.com, with the show starting at 6.50pm (UK time).

Tickets remain on sale, but must be purchased in advance - no tickets will be on sale at Emirates Stadium this evening.

The match is priced at £4 for adults and £2 for concessions.

Kick-off is at 7pm and if you are unable to attend or watch online, we will be providing updates and footage on Twitter - follow us @Arsenal.

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