‘Absolute bonus’: Arsenal coach raves about 6ft 5in academy defender’s latest display

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Arsenal Under-23s coach Steve Bould has praised Zech Medley’s display for the Gunners as they triumphed in the Premier League International Cup in midweek.

The 6ft 5in defender scored a brace for Arsenal as the Emirates Stadium academy side triumphed in a seven-goal thriller against Monaco at Meadow Park on Tuesday night.

Medley gave Arsenal the lead on the rebound after the opposition goalkeeper spilled a Matt Smith cross, but Monaco hit back moments later through Moussa Sylla.

The 19-year-old centre-back then headed home to put the Gunners back ahead, before Enzo Millot made it 2-2, the scoreline at the break.

Although Monaco then edged into the lead after the interval, Folarin Balogun then netted a penalty before chipping home late on for the victory.

Bould told the Arsenal website of Medley’s display: “Zech scored with his head, which is an absolute bonus!

“It was great for him, the kid found it tough playing out of position on Friday night but did a grand job.

“Tonight playing centre back he looked a far more established player, which we know that he is.”

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Medley has been making quite a name for himself at Under-23 level for Arsenal this season thanks to his impressive displays at the heart of defence and chipping in with the odd goal.

The youngster is deemed one of Arsenal’s brightest prospects, and was even picked for the Gunners’ US tour, where started several games alongside Laurent Koscielny.

It might still be too soon to throw him in at the deep end of first team football, particularly with Arsenal having their defensive issues which would be too much responsibility to place on the shoulders of a young up-and-coming player.

However, if things continue to go to plan, Medley could perhaps be in line for a loan move somewhere next season to continue his development, and one day get his chance for Arsenal’s first team.