Akpom's Youth League Double Further Strengthens First Team Credentials

Chuba Akpom once again outlined his potential as he fired a brace in Arsenal's 4-1 win over Napoli in the UEFA Youth League.

The 19 year old has been amongst the first team squad this season and made his senior debut when he replaced Olivier Giroud in the victory over Sunderland in September.

With Nicklas Bendtner still struggling to prove his worth since returning to Arsenal, there is a genuine chance that Akpom could continue to be involved in some capacity in the first team as the season progresses.

He certainly did his chances no harm with another impressive display in European competition as the young Gunners eased to victory over Napoli, with Akpom and Austin Lipman both scoring twice.

Arsenal now sit top of the group with two wins from their opening two games, having scored eight goals and just conceded twice. In the first week of the competition it was Serge Gnabry that made the headlines as he scored twice and was subsequently rewarded with a run of games in the first team.

The German winger has excelled since being handed an opportunity by Arsene Wenger and scored his first senior goal in the 2-1 win over Swansea that helped Arsenal move top of the league.

Akpom will be keen to follow in the footsteps of his fellow youngster and could have had a hat-trick against Napoli had his 52<sup>nd minute penalty not been well saved by Nikita Baranovsky.

The England youth striker had already converted a spot-kick in the first half but did manage to grab his second just ten minutes from time when he tapped home a low cross from Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill.

As well as the two goals, Akpom combined well with Lipman and created both goals for the 18 year old striker who also impressed on the night.

With the first team enjoying great success it appears to have rubbed off on the Under-19s who will next face Borussia Dortmund in what will be another golden opportunity for Akpom to display his vast talent.