Nwaneri Will Have More Minutes —Arteta

Mikel Arteta has said Ethan Nwaneri will have more minutes with Arsenal’s senior men’s team this season.

Nwaneri made his debut two years ago, when he was just 15 years old, but has been restricted to a handful of appearances in the league so far.

The youngster who turned 17 in March, has been in the matchday squad for all of Arsenal’s matches this season but had only played four minutes against Tottenham before the Carabao Cup clash with Bolton.

In the midweek Cup tie, Nwaneri bagged a brace as Arsenal thrashed Bolton 5-1 at the Emirates.

After watching the youngster score either side of half-time against Bolton, Arteta hinted there could be more to come.

“Ethan was really good. A really strong performance. He feels part of us and is playing with that confidence and belief. To start in the Premier League is another step. On his journey he is ahead of where we expected. He will have minutes. He deserves it.”

Meanwhile, Arteta gave update on David Raya revealing Arsenal will need to make a late check on his fitness before Saturday’s visit of Leicester City.

Raya received treatment in the second half of last weekend’s draw with Manchester City but sat out the Bolton game in midweek.

“We don’t know yet,” Arteta said when asked about the Spanish goalkeeper after Wednesday’s win. “He’s got a muscular injury so we need to check.”