By Lloyd Webb
Chris Willock knows the key to making the leap from Arsenal’s academy to the first team - hard work.
The tricky winger has seen team-mates Ismael Bennacer, Alex Iwobi, Jeff Reine-Adelaide and Glen Kamara all promoted to Arsene Wenger’s squad in recent weeks.
Willock has already made the jump from the under-18s to become a regular for the under-21s this term, and believes that he is at the perfect club as he seeks to go to the next level.
"When you get your chance, you have to take it"
Chris Willock
“If you are good enough, the boss gives us a chance and that gives us all confidence,” he told Arsenal.com. "Alex, Ismael and Jeff all in the first team gives us all belief that we can kick on and maybe get a chance in the first team.
“Alex especially has gained a lot more confidence - hopefully I will be involved with the first team too. It gives us belief that we will all hopefully have a chance one day.
“I’m always trying my hardest in training to impress the coaches and hopefully that has had an effect on them. I’m just going to keep on working hard and trying to improve my game.
"The ride is never smooth - there are ups and downs but you have to keep working. When you get your chance, you have to take it.”
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Chris Willock in action for the under-19s
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