For me one of, if not the most exciting arrival this summer will be the return of Fran Mérida from his loan spell with Spanish Segunda outfit Real Sociedad.

Fran has had a mixed and eventful time back in his home land since joining the Basque outfit in January, and after starting well under former Fulham boss Chris Coleman, Merida found himself on the bench as Coleman was sacked and new chairman Iñaki Badiola decided he wanted his own man in charge.

Jose Ramon Eizmendi was appointed and decided to keep Fran on the bench, only using him for the final moments of games to run down the clock. You could understand this happening if it was successful, but the fact of the matter was that under Eizmendi Sociedad had slipped out of the automatic promotion zone, and with pressure piling on the Real board, Jose Ramon was sacked just over two months after his appointment.

In came Juanma Lillo, who quickly established Mérida as the lynch pin of his side. He started him for the home game against Hércules, (his first in charge) and with the scores at 1-1 Fran bagged the winner with just minutes left. A speculator way to celebrate his brand new four year contract with Arsenal.

Whilst the loan spell in Spain has not been an easy ride for Fran, the experience gained will prove to be priceless. The Segunda season runs right to June so there is still plenty of playing time and vital experience to be gained. However he has been called up to the Spanish Under 19 squad that will face Ukraine and Turkey later this month.

Wenger has previously spoken about Mérida, and called the 18 year old an “An absolutely amazing player”, whilst it is unknown where Arsene sees as his best position, the long term future is looking good for Fran.

He will no doubt take heart from Mark Randall, Kieran Gibbs and Jay Simpson who have all scored goals following there return for loan spells, and if Fran was amazing before the loan spell, imagine how good he will be on his return.

Article By - J.Sanderson

All the signs are pointing to Al-Sadd forward Mauro Zárate joining Arsenal this summer, in one of the least talked about transfer stories around. Zárate is currently in his home town of Haedo, Buenos Aires Argentina following the completion of his 6 month loan spell at Birmingham City.

Alex Mcleish and the Birmingham board had previously spoken of there desire to keep Mauro on loan for next season, but after they were relegated to the Championship the players agent has confirmed he will not consider playing in the second tier of English football.

His agent also confirmed that he has had offers from clubs in the Premiership, and said his client is in talks with “one of the big four clubs”. With Setanta Sports, who conducted the interview suggesting Arsenal are in the driving seat.

“We are in talks with two Premier League clubs, but there are three or four others who are also interested, There is one club from the top four and another couple from the top eight”

“Mauro arrives back in Argentina today. In the next couple of days we will continue to talk and then make a decision.”

“Mauro will stay in England, He would have loved to stay at Birmingham, he really liked it there, he loved the fans and they loved him but unfortunately with the situation there it will not be possible for him to stay.

Added to these quotes from Christian Otero (the players agent) comes the hints that Arsene Wenger made last week regards to a potential new signing. All the hints Wenger makes perfectly describes the 21 year old Zarate, with the Frenchman saying he wanted a “creative” player, with Premier League experience.

“It would be better to buy someone who has played in England because they are less risky, But it costs more money if they are from the Premier League, so maybe I will try to do both.”

“We want as well to bring new talent in on the creative side of our game.”

Not only this but Otero claims the transfer to the “unnamed club” will be completed inside the next 2-3 weeks. This statement was also made by Arsene Wenger who said he will make his first signing before the end of the month. Niko Krancjar was mentioned as being that player the Gunners boss talked about, but today he confirmed he does not want to leave Portsmouth, as he feels he can achieve big things with them.

So will we buy Mauro Zárate? i do not know if i am honest, but look at all the facts presented, look at the type of player Mauro is, and with it being claimed he can leave for as little as £10 million, Wenger’s eye for a bargain could see the little Argentine join Arsenal.

You heared it here first ! … sort of.

Article By - J.Sanderson

Portsmouth are leading the race to sign 18 year old Arsenal winger Armand Traore on loan for next season. The Frenchman has spent the last two seasons on the fringe of the first team, and finished the last campaign making several appearances in the Reserves.

Traore joined Arsenal from Monaco aged just 16 and after competing with Gael Clichy for the left back slot, Arsene Wenger decided to use Armand’s abilities on the left wing, something that has been rather impressive in recent weeks. It is expected he will go to Pompey with the specific intention to play on the wing, and learn the trade under Harry Redknapp.

Norwich City and Cardiff City have been linked with Traore’s loan signing recently, but the lure of Premiership football is a much more attractive offer to Arsenal and Armand. It now seems that Pedro Botelho will be the back up for Clichy when he returns from his loan at Salamanca next season, with Justin Hoyte and William Gallas expected to be the back up for next season.

Newly promoted West Bromwich Albion have entered talks with Arsenal about loaning Alexandre Song for next term as they plan their squad for the rigours of Premiership football.

Tony Mowbray is also expected to ask for a clause to be added to the contract enabling the midlands outfit to buy Song for a fixed sum on completion of the loan should The Baggies remain in the top flight. Arsene Wenger is a huge admirer of the much improved Cameroon international, who has made two Reserves appearances this season scoring once against Chelsea.

Song has also spent time on loan at Charlton two season’s ago, and despite some superb performances he could not stop there demotion to the Championship. It is expected Wenger will hang on to Alex whatever happens but no doubt a year on loan will dramatically help the 20 year old, before then returning to fight for his place with the Gunners.

Article By - J.Sanderson

The semi finals of the UEFA European Under 17 Championship’s got under way this evening, with Gilles Sunu’s France taking on hosts Turkey in the first game, whilst Oguzhan Özyakup’s Netherlands took on the holders Spain.

80 minutes separated both sides from a final place, with only one thing guaranteed. Top quality football.

Gilles Sunu started for France, and lost the ball which ended up being the opening goal for Turkey, smashed home by Kayalı. Gilles was taken off at half time in place off Lacazette, after a hard working yet fruitless performance. France equalised in the second period thanks to a Kolodziecziak strike setting up extra time.

After the sides could not be separated it went down to penalties, and after both sides saw there first attempts saved, Turkish striker Karadeniz missed, meaning Sunu’s replacement Lacazette had the chance to win the game and book his countries place in the final. He converted meaning the French would be competing in the final but must wait to see against who.

Oğuzhan Özyakup was named on the substitutes bench for the second semi-final, as Holland drew 1-1 with Spain in normal time after Sneijder’s header was cancelled out by Pulido’s volley. However deep into extra time sub Ángel Martínez volleyed home to put Spain in the final against France.

Scroll down for full reports on both fixtures

Gilles Sunu - France 1-1 Turkey - (AET France Win 4-3 On Penalties)

Before kick off Karim Benzema has issued a good luck message to the French players, and urged them to replicate the glory him, Hatem Ben Arfa and Samir Nasri have previously achieved by winning this tournament.

Gilles Sunu kept his place in a three pronged attack, Sunu playing as a wide right forward with the competitions leading scorer Tafer down the middle and Chelsea’s Gael Kakuta on the left. It was the latter that forced the first early chance from a corner, but it was cleared away.

The Turks had the support of the crowd and played some flowing football with the impressive Tore being the star. But neither side managed to find an end product.

Sunu then had the ball on the wing and attempted to play a pass forward but lost possession to Albayrak. He skipped down the flank and his cross defected off the bar, but came back out to Kayalı on the edge of the box, he took a touch and curled a sumptuous shot into the top corner to give the hosts a lead.

France tried to hit back with Sunu again going down the flank, but his powerful run was snuffed out by the efficient Turkish back line. Then Sunu had another chance and stabbed the ball back for Tafer who’s low shot was gathered in. On the break Turkey were always dangerous and Karadeniz should have snatched a second but Mfa Mezui saved low to deny him. It was the final action of the first half and its advantage Turkey.

Half Time - Turkey 1-0 France

Half time brought a change for France as Gilles Sunu was replaced with Lacazette in a like-for-like swap up front. Decision making from Turkey was proving the downfall as Albayrak chose to shoot when a pass seemed better, and pass when it seemed obvious to shoot.

The long tournament was getting to both sets of players as time ticked on, with several passes being misplaced and the flow and energy draining out of the play. Kakuta was impressive for France and if all his team mates would have played with his spirit an equaliser seemed a certainty.

However Turkey then nearly snatched another goal, as Çek’s left wing cross was headed inches over by Batuhan Karadeniz. The flow then returned as Kakuta pulling the strings slid a lovely ball to the feet of Tafer, who’s first touch showed too much to the keeper and he dived on the ball.

Kakuta then dragged his shot wide and the frustration was beginning to show, but when Lacazette was fouled on the edge of the box France had a perfect chance to level the scores. Fofana’s goal bound shot was clawed out of the net by the Turkish stopper Uçar.

Turkey were working the ball around better and looked good for a second when Çolak’s pull back found Karadeniz in the box, but he scooped his shot just wide of the target. The Turks had spent much of the second period showboating and playing for the crowd, and they were then caught out.

Lacazette found himself in possession 5 yards out, and clipped the ball across the goal to Tafer, he flicked it across to Thimothée Kolodziecziak who smashed the ball beyond the keeper from a tight angle. With the scores tied at 1-1 and only 10 minutes left on the clock, extra time loomed.

The Turks then stepped things up with Karataş coming into the action but the French had more about them in Kakuta and Tafer. Karadeniz then had one final chance but after controlling the ball expertly, he dragged the chance into the stand.

Full Time - France 1-1 Turkey (Extra Time To Be Played)

After a lengthy period of taking fluids on board the referee gathered both sides to play extra time. Which was started with a long range drive from Fofana who was trying to catch the keeper out. Turkey hit back and Çek’s cross deflected to Karataş on the edge of the box. He took control and volleyed straight at Mezui who smothered it away.

Its disappointing to say but Lacazette looked a much brighter and effective player than Sunu, and he nearly worked an opening after back heeling Tafer’s pass, but it was deflected away. France then could have scored as Salibur got in around the back, and poked the ball to Remy on the penalty spot. He did not steady himself and crashed his effort into the stand.

With just seconds left of extra time Lacazette burst inside and after showing the ball to Eren, he pulled the ball away and Eren appeared to barge him to the floor. The referee gave nothing and blew the whistle to end the first period of extra time.

1st Period Of Extra Time - France 1-1 Turkey

France looked brighter and then had another superb chance, as Kakuta stormed inside showed the ball to two players, and took it past them before letting fly on his right foot but it flew well wide. It became obvious Turkey were playing for penalties and were sat very deep as the half progressed.

Remy then crashed a 40 yard free kick high over the bar, before Kakuta tried a different set piece routine but it was not read by Fofana and the ball went out for a goal kick. Then followed a spell of Turkish pressure but the final ball was poor and the French cleared.

With just 20 seconds left Karadeniz flicked his header over, from just 6 yards out and the game finished at 1-1. Penalties would decide the winner.

2nd Period Of Extra Time - France 1-1 Turkey (Penalties To Follow)

Turkish Penalties

1) Kayalı - Saved By Mezui
2) Çolak - Scores
3) Çek - Scores
4) Karadeniz - Saved By Mezui
5) Eren - Scores

French Penalties

1) Tafer -Saved By Uçar
2) Fofana - Scores
3) Kakuta - Scores
4) Kolodziecziak - Scores
5) Lacazette - Scores !!

France win 4-3 on penalties, and will face the winners of Spain V Holland in the final.

Oğuzhan Özyakup - Holland 1-2 Spain ( AET)

Oğuzhan Özyakup was again named on the bench as Holland took on the holders and tournament favourites Spain to decide who would play Sunu’s France in the grand final. Would Arsenal have both representative in the final? the next 90 minutes would decide.

The second semi-final started in a similar way to the first one, with both sides starting cagey and both teams exchanged early possession without any final ball. Spain then exploded into life with reported Arsenal target Carmona skipping down the flank, and forcing a last ditch tackle from Burnet.

The super Castillion then used his physical prowess to work a chance for Sneijder, which was unfortunately blazed wide. Then Castillion had the chance to open the scoring but failed to connect with Bonevacia’s cross.

The Spanish left back Carles then placed a neat 1-2 before racing down the wing, and missed the final ball and smashed into van Rhijn which sent the giant central defender crashing to the floor. The yellow card was issued in what would prove to be a physical encounter.

As Sneijder jinked inside he was pushed down giving the Dutch a free kick 30 yards out. With everybody in the box waiting for the cross, Bonevacia went for goal with a powerful shot which forced the Spanish stopper Álex to make a difficult save.

Holland then worked the next superb chance out of nothing, as Martín failed to control the ball and Castillion lofted his effort just over when it seemed a certain goal. However shortly after, the Dutch goal would come as Castillion rolled Cabral into the wing, his deep cross found Sneijder at the back post who headed home on 34 minutes.

With Holland having the taste for it, the brilliant Castillion rolled the defenders and just blazed into the side netting, in an exciting period. Spain looked tired and uninterested but nearly hit back with the brilliance of Thiago working a chance for Rubén, who failed to convert.

Martín worked an excellent opening for Rubén which required a late tackle from Najah to deny a shot from the Spanish full back Martín. It was the final action of the first half.

Half Time - Holland 1-0 Spain

Holland began the second half much better passing confidently, and looked good for a second goal with Spain out of sorts as things drew on. Martín felt he should have had a penalty when he went down in the box, however the referee gave a corner instead.

The corner proved to be effective as it was initially cleared but it was then volleyed into the mixer by Canales, the Dutch pushed out and the ball found the central defender Pulido who chested the ball down, before smashing home from close range. The Netherlands appealed for offside for it was not given and the goal stood. Spain were level despite creating very little setting up an interesting finish to the game.

Spain had now taken control and with the Dutch holding on, it seemed changes would were needed to kick fire Holland with Özyakup a serious option. The Spanish threat disappeared as time went on and the game returned to its midfield battle, in between there was two chances one for either side. Castillion volleyed one effort wide of the target, before Rubén’s free kick was caught by Zoet.

van La Parra came on for Mokthar as Holland freshened things up with 15 minutes left, but it was Spain who finished much stronger with Rubén working Zoet in the Dutch goal. Both sides exchanged the ball but fatigue crept in and as time wore on the game started to fizzle out. Ebecilio came on for Holland to try and freshen things up but the game would go to extra time.

Full Time - Holland 1-1 Spain - (Extra Time To Be Played)

Spain looked a little brighter during extra time and Keko had a chance to race clear, but was adjudged to be in an offside position. More danger for Holland came when Manu’s cross wrong footed Zoet and he watched it roll wide for a corner. Zoet was nearly beaten again as an in swinging cross flew just over.

The two sets of tied players went for drinks as the first half of extra time ended.

1st Half Of Extra Time - Holland 1-1 Spain

With just a minute gone of extra time Spain would grab the vital goal, Holland failed to clear a set piece and the ball fell to Ángel Martínez who volleyed home from 25 yards out. A stunning goal and one which deserved to win any game.

The Dutch hit back with van Haaren coming on, and were then denied what look like a certain eaquliser. Álex came to catch a cross, but dropped it right at the feet of van La Parra. He pushed the ball forward into the empty net, and just as he turned to celebrate Pulido threw his foot out and stabbed it off the line. An amazing clearence which resigned Holland to defeat.

2nd Half Of Extra Time - Holland 1-2 Spain

Article By - J.Sanderson

With the domestic season drawing to a close all across Europe, managers and coaches are scouring the market for players to improve there squads for the next campaign.

Whilst Arsene Wenger is currently busy eyeing up deals for players which will feature in his squad immediately. Behind the scenes the Reserves and Youth coaching staff are planning their squads for the forthcoming season, with players set to be informed on who will be staying, and who will be going next month.

Over recent weeks Young Guns has exclusively revealed we have had Nikos Karelis, and Sean McDermott on trial with the club, with the pair both featuring during the Atalanta Cup win. We can also reveal that French Under 17 international Francis Coquelin has been put through his paces by the Arsenal coaching staff and was particularly impressive.

Coquelin is a rugged, strong, aggressive defensive midfielder. Blessed with a super passing range as well as all the combative qualities you would expect from a holding central player. He plys his trade for Stade Lavallois and has already featured on various occasions for the Reserves, after being promoted from the Under 18s.

Francis is in the style of Claude Makélélé, but on lookers have also made comparisons with Mathieu Flamini, due to his aggressive and no nonsense style. Shortly before his trial France coach Francis Smerecki included Coquelin in his squad for the Under 17 European Championships, but a thigh strain during his time in London ended his chances of competing.

Gilles Sunu was included and is in action this evening in the semi-final against Turkey, while Oguzhan Ozyakup is also in action against Spain in the other game. Check back later tonight for full reports on both fixtures.

Article By - J.Sanderson

A busy round up today, with loads of stories and things to tell you all about. However lets start with yesterdays final Premiership game between Arsenal and Sunderland.

Mark Randall got the final 10 minutes, and i thought was really impressive and was very unlucky not to get a goal on his Premiership debut, as replays showed his goal was onside. Which by the way i felt was a super finish, he started the move with a 40 yard pass to Walcott on the wing before racing into the area and slotting beyond the goalie from a tight angle.

Wenger has always been a huge fan of Mark and it seems the loan spell at Burnley has helped him no end. He looks physically strong and although he did not get long on the pitch yesterday, he showed signs that everything is coming together and he could be a real big prospect. So well done Mr Randall!.

Arsenal are being heavily linked with Atlético Madrid’s Ignacio Camacho, with the Daily Mail claiming Chief scout Steve Rowley has been to Spain to check on the prospect on various occasions. Camacho was room mates with Fran Merida during the Under 17 world cup last summer, and the pair developed a fantastic understanding on and off the pitch.

He has already made 8 first team appearances and has two goals. I feel whilst this guy is a really big prospect that Wenger will stick with his exciting young English players like the fore mentioned Randall and up and coming Jack Wilshere. In other news Nikos Karelis has told Greek press that the coaching staff were impressed with him, but he is still waiting for us to call him and confirm our interest following his trial.

Finally, many people e-mail me or leave comments saying i am a fantastic prospect how can i get into the club?. I will point this out as i have on many occasions, that i cannot get you into Arsenal. But if you live around East Finchley and you are free on Tuesday May 27th, the Gunners are holding a soccer school at Martin Junior School.

So if you think you have some promise, then get your boots and go down and show off your skills. You never know Young Guns could be reporting on your progress next season. David Court and Steve Bould are expected to be hosting them so great chance to meet some Arsenal legends too.

Oh and following on from our Awards ceremony, last night i won the Young Poster Of The Year award over at The Gooner Forum. Be sure to check it out, its a really big and friendly forum with some fantastic debate.

Article By - J.Sanderson

Last week Young Guns asked for you to vote for various player awards, to celebrate the achievements of Arsenal’s Reserves and Youth teams during this campaign. The awards were all chosen by you our readers and dedicated fans. You can see the below the winners of the prizes.

There were six catogries and six awards up for grabs, in different sections and aspects of the Reserves & Youth system. They were as follows.

Player Of The Year -
Reserves Player Of The Year -
Under 18s Player Of The Year -
Loanee Of the Year -
Goal Of The Year -
Worst Player Of The Year -

The biggest award of overall player of the season, has been won by Nacer Barazite after a superb season for the 17 year old which ended up with him being included on the bench for the final Premiership game of the season against Sunderland yesterday.

Over 20 goals including hat-tricks for the Under 18s, has seen Barazite become one of the most talked about prospects in England. Other votes came for Goalkeepers Szczesny and Mannone as well as captain Havard Nordtveit.

However Nacer won by 20 clear votes, a fantastic achievement and definitely a player to watch out for next season.

Collecting his second award, and in his first season as a Reserves regular, forward Nacer Barazite has become the main source of goals for Neil Banfields side. If he is not scoring them he is making them with all the class and style Arsenal fans are used to.

Its easy to forget he is just 17 years old, yet is already one of brightest prospect for club and country. 2008 also saw Nacer make his debut for Holland’s Under 19s where he currently has 2 goals in 2 games.

Massive congratulations for Nacer on both awards collected.

This season has seen Jack Wilshere go from Under 16s captain, to training full time with the first team in an incredible year for the little play-maker.

He finished his breakthrough campaign with a double figure goal tally, and recently collected the “player of the tournament” award during the Atalanta Cup. Wilshere who is only 16 has impressed manager Arsene Wenger who has confirmed his promotion to the first team for next season.

Other votes came for Szczesny, Frimpong and Rhys Murphy but Wilshere collected the prize with over 80% of the overall vote.

Young Guns readers have voted Carlos Vela as the Loanee of the year for 2008. This award was the closest of the bunch with just one vote separating the Mexican, and Jay Simpson.

There was one vote for Fran Merida, however all the other votes came for either Vela or Simpson with the race for the award being really close throughout. Congratulations to Carlos and all the other loanees on a mixed campaign for the loan players.

Jack Wilshere collected his second award in a break through season for the England Under 17 International, with his stunning goal at Underhill against West Ham United, winning comfortably over Armand Traore’s long range strike against Tottenham.

Other votes also came for Nacer Barazite’s cool finish in the 5-1 romp over Derby, but Wilshere’s left footed 25 yard curling shot was rated by you as the best overall. Congratulations to Jack on his second award in what has been a superb season for the starlet.

Vincent Van Den Berg has been voted Young Guns worst player of the season. Vincent won the award by two votes from James Dunne and Kerrea Gilbert who led a list which included summer signings Kyle Bartley and Gilles Sunu.

Van Den Berg has spent the second half of the season on loan at Go Ahead Eagles, but is set to have his contract cancelled with Arsenal during the next two months. Many were excited about Vincent who people compared with former Gunners legend Marc Overmars. But he has failed to settle in London, and after many poor performances was shipped out on loan as mentioned.

I would say congratulations, but i guess its not something anybody wants to win.

The Complete List Of Award Winners

Player Of The Year - Nacer Barazite
Reserves Player Of The Year - Nacer Barazite
Under 18s Player Of The Year - Jack Wilshere
Loanee Of the Year - Carlos Vela
Goal Of The Year - Jack Wilshere V West Ham
Worst Player Of The Year - Vincent van Den Berg

Thank you for everybody who voted, if you have any ideas of how to improve the awards or any new categories you would like to see next year leave your comments below.

Article By - J.Sanderson

Carlos Vela - Osasuna 2-1 Real Murcia

This time next year Carlos Vela will be planning his summer break probably with his family back in his native Mexico. However whilst his future team mates ended there season this afternoon, Vela is on a mission to help his loan club Osasuna avoid relegation from La Liga.

Despite being a regular for most of the season, coach Jose Angel Ziganda felt his side have gone stale in recent weeks with performances which has been his team slip deep into danger. He freshened things up during the defeat to Mallorca in midweek, with Vela dropping to the bench. Ziganda kept faith in his charges ahead of this evening’s game, which meant Carlos was again benched.

The theme of Osasuna’s fixtures this term has been their fantatic starts to games, that continued again against Murcia but this time it came a reward. Francisco Puñal’s cross was headed home by Vela’s good friend Eduardo Dady. The giant Cape Verde striker rose highest to meet the cross and give his side the lead inside two minutes.

Shellshocked Murcia were nearly 2-0 down three minutes later, but Francisco Juanfran’s shot flew over the bar. Murcia then commited several fouls which resulted in Alvaro Mejia being booked after a late tackle on Jaroslav Plasil. Osasuna had a taste for it now and the lanky forward Dady nearly helped himself to a second as he met Azpilicueta’s cross, but his effort went wide.

Real Murcia then hit back when reported Arsenal target Dani Aquino shot over, before having one charged down by Josetxo. Then former Chelsea man Enrique De Lucas worked the home keeper Ricardo with his left footed curler, before Mejia’s saw his effort blocked. The game was a entertaining yet nurvous encouter which nearly swung sharply in favour of Osasuna as two shots from Walter Pandiani went close, but eventually wide. It would prove to be the final action of the half, and so far so good for Vela and his team. But twice in recent weeks they have thrown away one goal leads and lost 2-1.

Half Time - Osasuna 1-0 Real Murcia

With Walter Pandiani picking up an injury it seemed Vela’s services would be called on, however Ziganda went for experience and brought on former Newcastle winger Hugo Viana. It seems La Liga’s relegation places will be filled by one of Osasuna or Recreativo De Huelva. News came through that they were 2-0 up over Almeria, meaning a win was a must.

The half time sub Hugo Viana showed why Ziganda brought him on, as he found space neatly but couldn’t control Dady’s headed pass and blazed over. The next 10 minutes were dogged by fouls and free kicks as both sides struggled to get into gear. News then came through that Recreativo had gone down to 10 men, and Osasuna took full advantage and scored the crucial second goal.

Punal’s free kick found Francisco Juanfran in space, he cut across the ball smashing it home with his right foot. A vital goal for the home side and one which keeps them level with Recreativo. But they would still be in the relegation places as goal difference is not counted in Spain.

Viana was starting to run the show, and after being just caught offside following a through ball, he made up for it by finding Dady’s head from a free kick. But the powerful striker failed to control and it was cleared. Having been kicked to pieces, Jaroslav Plasil was replaced on 63 minutes with Carlos Vela coming into the action.

Vela saw little of the ball in a midfield battle, but when given the chance he looked fresh and after racing forward he gave the ball to Hugo Viana who volleyed high and wide. Murcia tried to work a way back into the game with Paco Peña and Fernando Baiano going close, but as time ticked away the points seemed in the bag for Osasuna.

After storming away Carlos was clipped down by Abel for a free kick. Osasuna used it as a chance to keep the ball and run the clock down. Javad Nekounam came on to waste more time. However there was time for a late shock as sub Fernando Baiano bundled the ball over the line deep into stoppage time.

The referee put the whistle to his lips and blew for full time. Three hard worked and vital points in the battle to beat the drop. Vela is proving he can be a super impact player from the bench.

Full Time Osasuna 2-1 Real Murcia

Fran Merida Perez - Real Sociedad 2-2 Cadiz

After shaking off a small injury which has restricted Merida in the past two weeks, Fran was restored to Real Sociedad’s starting line up for their fixture against lowly Cadiz. Diaz de Cerio put Sociedad ahead with a goal that looked like it had put their promotion push back on track, before Dani equalised after half time.

Cadiz played better than there League position suggested, and snatched the lead through Natalio. But when your down near the bottom, things often do not go your way and that was the case as Delibasic scored the vital equaliser for Sociedad nine minutes from time.

Fran played 73 minutes before being replaced by Víctor.

Pedro Botelho - UD Salamanca 0-1 Numancia

Pedro Botelho was named amongst the bench as mid tabled UD Salamanca hosted top of the table side Numancia. A win for the visitors would all but see them safely through to La Liga, but at home Salamanca have proved tricky opposition.

The game was decided by a Mario Martínez strike on 24 minutes, giving Numancia the vital win. Pedro Botelho was introduced on 78 minutes in place of Jeorge Alonso and played left full back. The Union take on second place Sporting next week in a testing couple of weeks.

Pedro played 12 minutes for Salamanca

Article By - J.Sanderson

Arsene Wenger kept his policy by including a bench full of Reserves and Youth players for the final game of the season, for the trip to Teeside to take on Roy Keane’s Sunderland. The surprising news ahead of kick off was Kieran Gibbs was left out with a suspected injury, he was replaced by Reserves skipper Håvard Nordtveit.

Top scorer Nacer Barazite was also included alongside stopper Vito Mannone, winger Armand Traore and the fore mentioned Mark Randall.

The Confirmed Arsenal Team

Fabianski
Djourou - Senderos - Song - Clichy
Eboue - Denilson - Gilberto (c) - Walcott
Bendtner - Adebayor

Subs - 40. Mannone, 35. Nordtveit, 30. Traore, 36. Randall, 43. Barazite

Mark Randall was nearly involved with just three minutes gone, as Emmanuel Eboue had his ankle kicked out. After being taken of on a stretcher Eboue it seemed could not continue and Randall was warming up. However shortly afterwards he returned.

Sunderland has some nice early touches, and two free kicks which were eventually wasted. But then Arsenal stepped up the tempo and bagged the opening goal. Gilberto picked the ball up in the centre of midfield and poked it inside the Sunderland back line, Walcott raced on to it and as Martin Fulop advanced Theo clipped the ball beyond him to give Arsenal a 24th minute lead.

The second half was a more relaxed affair between the two sides, and at times it seemed both sides had half an eye on the summer break. But following a mix up between Danny Collins and goalkeeper Marton Fulop Arsenal won a free kick from just 6 yards out.

Bendtner, Adebayor, Walcott and Gilberto all stood over it, with the latter coming up and smashing it well wide of the target in a bizarre incident. Then Pat Rice signaled two changes for the Gunners.

Mark Randall > Nicklas Bendtner (81)
Armand Traore > Emmanuel Eboue (81)

The TV commentators then made jokes about Randall’s hair cut even saying it looks like it was cut with a knife and fork! haha. Walcott pushed up front with Randall on the right wing, and Traore taking the position the left flank.

Mark and Traore had one or two touches as the tempo edged out and the game drew to a close. Arsenal controlled the ball towards the end of the game, with a flowing passing move involving Randall, Gilberto, Denilson, and Walcott. Arsenal first goalscorer then toe poked the ball through to Randall who slotted beyond the goalkeeper, only for the referee to give it as offside. It would have been the perfect reward on his Premiership debut.

With minutes left the Gunners searched for another goal, Walcott and Denilson played a neat 1-2 who fed Adebayor. Then Randall was brought into the play in midfield, and was not daunted by the atmosphere and struck a powerful drive which Marton Fulop grabbed.

Lukasz Fabianski was particularly impressive, he was sharp of his line and made several decent stops to deny Sunderland an equaliser. But the referee blew for full time.

An impressive 9 minutes plus three minutes of injury time for Traore and Randall, with the latter showing signs he could be a real prospect for the club. In other news Jay Simpson looks set to leave the club during the summer transfer window.

Article By - J.Sanderson

Day three of The UEFA European Under 17 Championship’s got under way this afternoon, with all the teams playing the final games of the group stages before next weeks knock out phase.

Gilles Sunu’s France fresh from the stunning 3-3 draw with Spain took on Switzerland. While Arsenal’s other representative new signing Oguzhan Özyakup was again named on the bench as his Dutch team took on a struggling Scotland.

Oguzhan Özyakup started from the bench, but played the last 5 minutes as Holland beat Scotland 2-0 thanks to goals in either side of half time from Geoffrey Castillion, and Ricardo van Rhijn. They are now into the knockout phase next week.

Gilles Sunu started for France and played the full 80 minutes as France booked there place in the semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Switzerland, thanks to a double from Yannis Tafer.

Scroll down for full reports on both fixtures.

Oğuzhan Özyakup - Holland 2-0 Scotland

Oguzhan Ozyakup was again named on the substitutes bench as Holland looked to build on their 1-0 win over Serbia, with a win over struggling Scotland.

The Netherlands were the firm favourites for the win, and set about the Scots by forcing three early corners. However the delivery from Cabral left a lot to be desired. Scotland were dogged in their attempts to defend, and snuffed out the early threats the Dutch possessed.

The hard work as nearly undone as a nice passing move ended with Eekman dragging his shot wide from a great position. Scotland could have had a goal themselves shortly after, when Campbell twisted and turned away, before stabbing his shot wide of the post.

The final ball was letting Holland down, and the control for the giant forward Castillon did not help matters, but he near turned provider after playing a slick 1-2 with Jordy Clasie, but the play-maker could not keep his effort down and it was subsequently blocked.

As half time approached the Dutch felt they should have had a penalty, when Sneijder clipped Castillion away over the top, as he raced forward the Scotland goalkeeper came racing out and clashed with the Ajax man, nothing was given. But less than 60 seconds later Castillion would get revenge.

Tim Eekman lofted the ball over the Scots back line, Castillion took control on his chest before slotting the ball beyond the advancing keeper to give Holland the lead on 34 minutes. The next chance would come from Rodney Sneijder’s left footed free kick, but it was scrambled away as the half drew to a close.

Half Time - Holland 1-0 Scotland

The second period began with fouls and free kicks for both sides, as the game struggled to get going. Then things exploded into life, as Ricardo van Rhijn strolled forward from defence and found himself in possession on the edge of the box, he played a deft and neat 1-2 with Castillion before lashing the ball into the corner of the net from a tight angle to double the lead on 46 minutes.

Almost instantly after it should have been 3-0 as Jerson Cabral and Castillion linked up, sending the latter racing inside the left channel. As the Scotland keeper advanced Castillion over hit his cross and the danger was cleared.

The Dutch were in control and probing for a third, but coach Stuivenberg decided to rest one of his stars and Rick van Haaren replaced Rodney Sneijder with 25 minutes left. Then came a mini spell of pressure from Scotland, as they worked two quick fire corners the latter was cleared with ease.

Clasie had caught the eye in the Dutch midfield and not just for his bizarre hairstyle, he clipped the ball to Castillion on the edge of the box, who’s left footed volley was caught with ease.

Scotland has more chances on the break, but lacked the ability to convert them or keep the ball for long periods of time. The two substitutes nearly combined to bring the scores to 2-1 as Paul Slane’s cut back was stabbed wide by Robert McHugh.

However it should have been 3-0 shortly afterwards as Jerson Cabral’s cross found Clasie’s head but he clipped it over. With 5 minutes left Clasie was withdrawn and Oguzhan Özyakup was introduced.

He was instantly involved in an attack as he played a neat double 1-2 with Lorenzo Ebecilio, but the move was snuffed out. He was then part of a two man wall which blocked Paul Slane’s free kick with the game coming to a close.

Cabral then sold Oguzhan short with a poor pass which allowed John Fleck the chance to break away. But it was again easily dealt with. Deep into stoppage time Özyakup raced into the box and stepped away from his marker as Castillion tricked forward. Instead of the obvious option of pulling it back for the Arsenal starlet to shoot, the big Ajax striker went for goal and made it easy for Scotland keeper Grant Adam.

It finished 2-0 which means Holland progress to the knockout phase and Scotland will be going home.

Full Time - Holland 2-0 Scotland

Gilles Sunu - France 2-0 Switzerland

Gilles Sunu was restored to the starting line up for France’s crunch game with Switzerland. A win for either side would see them join Spain in the semi finals next week.

France have started their fixtures in an attacking manner throughout the competition, and made a bright start as Gael Kakuta forced an early corner. However the nerves got to the players as the half progressed, and it become an end-to-end encounter.

Pasche had two chances with a couple of shots at the French goal, but both came to nothing. This was followed by a shot from Kakuta which went for a corner, but the resulting set pieces was blocked and cleared. But with 8 minutes left of the half the impressive Yannis Tafer struck home to give France a vital lead, which they would take into half time.

Half Time - France 1-0 Switzerland

The Swiss came out for the second half with an attacking mentality, and had a great early chance when Rebronja was bundled over by Fauré. It was wasted and the frustration got to the Swiss who began to kick out, however Gilles Sunu sporting some flashy red boots cut inside and unleashed an effort but the Swiss keeper Borkovic gathered with ease.

Sunu had worked hard for his team and played a part in the move which led to Tafer bagging his second, and his teams second to wrap up the win on 51 minutes. Sunu would have the games next chance but his shot was dragged wide.

Then came a period of substitutions for both sides, which saw the flow of the game disrupted. The flow never really returned to the game, but France won a corner which was taken by Sunu, but was over hit, then Sunu was adjudged to be in an offside position following Kakuta though ball.

The win sees France safely through to the semi finals as group winners, with Spain finishing second behind them. Spain came from a goal down to beat Ireland in a brilliant game, and i must say every one of Spain’s players are superb.

Full Time - France 2-0 Switzerland

Semi-finals Will Be As Follows.

Netherlands V Spain
France V Turkey

So we could see the two Arsenal boys in the final, however Turkey and Spain will be the firm favourites to get there.

Article By - J.Sanderson