Pre-Match Report

U-21s: Fulham v Arsenal – Preview

Marcus McGuane
Marcus McGuane

By Lloyd Webb

What’s the key to good form? Marcus McGuane says it’s unity.

The midfielder has played a pivotal role in Arsenal Under-21s’ six-game unbeaten run, while also helping the under-18s reach the FA Youth Cup semi-finals.

Steve Gatting’s side have not lost a game this year, and sit in third position with four games in hand. McGuane will be hoping hoping to extend that form against Fulham on Tuesday, and says hard graft and togetherness are vital components to their success.

"They will be good all-round. We trained on defensive shape and will go into the game with a lot of confidence because we have done well"

Marcus McGuane

“I think we can carry it on,” he told Arsenal.com "We have a lot of belief in the changing room so we can keep the run going. Everyone works hard, tries hard and trains well together.

“We are united and there is a family environment so I would say it is all down to that hard work - plus we have a lot of talent. We have a talent everywhere. To win the league would be fantastic.

“The first half of the season basically sets you up for the second half. We got ourselves into a good position in the league and I think it is in our hands now.

“Next year, I will hopefully be able to play against better teams in Division One. We are Arsenal, so that is where we should be and it would be good for my development as well.”

McGuane didn’t play in the 1-0 win against Fulham back in August, but says he is expecting a tough test on Wednesday night.

“They will have good players, a good team and will be good in both defence and attack,” he said.

“They will be good all-round. We trained on defensive shape and will go into the game with a lot of confidence because we have done well."

Follow @Arsenal on Twitter from 18:55pm (UK time) on Wednesday for live updates of the game against Fulham Under-21s at Motspur Park.