Arsenal give Josh Ogunnaike first-team chance before Bayern Munich tie

Nigeria-eligible left-back Josh Ogunnaike has trained with Arsenal’s first team as Mikel Arteta prepares his squad for Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich, reports allnigeriasoccer.com.

The teenager’s involvement follows a series of strong performances for Arsenal’s youth teams, which have earned him the opportunity to work alongside the senior squad ahead of an important European fixture.

Ogunnaike has made two appearances in the UEFA Youth League this season and has scored once. His performances at youth level have impressed Arteta, although the defender is still waiting to make his senior debut for Arsenal.

Training with the first team gives Ogunnaike the chance to show the manager that he can compete at the highest level. He will hope his progress with the club’s young players can lead to an opportunity in the senior side.

His inclusion also gives Arteta another option at left-back, despite the return of Colombian defender Piero Hincapie to training.

Hincapie enjoyed an impressive debut campaign with Arsenal last season, but his form this term has been less consistent. His progress has also been affected by injuries since the beginning of the current campaign.

Ogunnaike will now aim to make the most of his time with the first team and convince Arteta of his ability. His immediate ambition is to earn the chance to play for Arsenal, with a senior debut the ultimate target.