Pre-Match Report

U-23s: Chelsea v Arsenal - The Brief

TJJ and Willock

We will be hoping to extend our unbeaten streak to eight Premier League 2 fixtures on Monday night when we face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

THE STORY SO FAR 

Freddie Ljungberg’s side delivered a five-star performance in the PL2 last week, as they beat Derby County 5-0 at Meadow Park.

Tyreece John-Jules maintained his fine form, scoring twice in the first half, before Joe Willock made it three before the break.

Xavier Amaechi and Zech Medley furthered our advantage in the second half, while Zak Swanson and Ben Cottrell came off the bench to make their PL2 debuts.

This result followed a hard-fought 0-0 draw with league leaders Everton and a 1-0 win over West Ham.

A win on Monday night could see us climb up to third in the table.

Willock and John-Jules

THE OPPOSITION 

The Blues are currently struggling for form in the PL2, having secured just two victories from their last eight outings.

As a result, they’re sat in sixth on 28 points, just three points below us after 20 outings.  

Billy Gilmour scored the winner for the Blues against us last November  - and he remains their top goalscorer this season with five goals in 17 appearances.

The 17-year-old is a technical and agile midfielder, capable of dictating play from deep and popping up in the final third.

Gilmour

ONE TO WATCH 

Daniel Ballard produced a stunning goalline clearance last time out against Derby County, ensuring we maintained our clean sheet while sitting on a 4-0 lead.

The 19-year-old has proven to be a reliable option at the heart of our defence this season, displaying his ability to play out from the back and clear his lines when needed.

He’s tough in the tackle, dominant in the air and rarely finds himself exposed in one on one situations.

With the attacking talent that Chelsea possess, we’ll need Ballard at his best on Monday night.

Ballard

FOLLOW THE ACTION 

You can receive live updates by following our Twitter account @ArsenalAcademy

The game is set to take place at Stamford Bridge with kick-off at 7pm (UK time).

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