4 – Chuba Akpom
Last but not least, Chuba Akpom could be in with a real chance of making a breakthrough to the Arsenal first team for the upcoming season.
The Gunners have had problems of late with Olivier Giroud proving to be too inconsistent and the injury-plagued Danny Welbeck and Theo Walcott has left Arsenal seriously short in recent seasons which has proven to play divalent in Arsenal’s lack of success due to their depleted fire power in front of goal.
Akpom has been given opportunities for the Gunners, after impressive performances leading to a few goals last pre-season saw him in and around the first team squad, he went on to make four appearances, mainly from the bench but he was unable to score, although he did impress, especially against Aston Villa after his blistering pace saw him break through the backline and being brought down by the keeper, which led to the Gunners converting a penalty.
As part of his progression, he was sent on loan to Hull last season and made an impressive 41 appearances scoring an uninspiring seven goals. The England U21 star has also represented England four times scoring three goals.
This can be a worry to the Arsenal faithful, they’re crying out for a clinical finisher and Akpom hasn’t proven this as of late, but at just 20 years-old and playing in a very physical league he did prove he is also a team player and created chances for his fellow teammates.
The lack of goals shouldn’t play a part on his successful loan spell at Hull City, he managed to progress as player and got much need experience, he was a key part to the squad that gained promotion to the Premier League and his performances were noticed.
Akpom was a bright spark for the Tigers going forward and managed to create 0.65 chances per 90 minutes which is good for a youngster learning his trade. Less impressive, Akpom managed just 0.15 goals per 90 last season, something he will need to improve upon if he is to break into the first team.
Akpom is very quick on and off the ball and can play as virtually the last man, this benefits the team as he is able to have a go at defences which is one of his best traits, his lack of goals will be questioned but an impressive pre-season could see the youngster burst into life with the Gunners next season.
Worth a mention: Ainsley Maitland-Niles – Likely to go back on loan but Ainsley was very good at Ipswich last season.