Eddie Nketiah thinks Arsenal 18-year-old has a great future ahead of him

Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah has lauded Gunners teammate Charlie Patino for his wonderful debut on Tuesday.

The 18-year-old is one of the brightest talents that have come through the Hale End academy in recent years.

Known for his technical ability and agility in midfield, Patino has often played for higher age groups.

As a 14-year-old, Patino captained England’s Under-16s against Spain and made his debut for Arsenal’s Under-18s against Chelsea.

Last season, the playmaker earned promotion to the Under-23s – a great achievement considering his age – and made four appearances.

This term, Patino has made 15 appearances in the Premier League 2, EFL Trophy and FA Youth Cup.

Patino is so highly rated that plenty of Arsenal fans have been calling for him to get game time in the cups this term.

In Tuesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final against Sunderland, Mikel Arteta finally gave the youngster his debut off the bench.

Patino quickly made an impact after coming on in the 80th minute, netting Arsenal’s fifth in injury time.

The teenager connected with Nicolas Pepe’s low ball across the box and turned it home from eight yards out.

An incredible moment for Patino and everyone else in the Arsenal ranks and fanbase.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Nketiah sung Patino’s praises.

“Amazing for him,” he said, as transcribed by BBC Sport. “He’s got a great future ahead of him.”

Arsenal’s Under-23s aren’t in action now until 10 January, when they face Brighton in PL2 action.

Could Arteta give Patino more minutes during the festive Premier League fixtures?

Arsenal face Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup on 9 January – perhaps he could feature then.

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