Ainsley Maitland-Niles started for Arsenal against Koln.
Arsenal starlet Ainsley Maitland-Niles had a game of two halves at The Emirates as the Gunners beat FC Koln.
Manager Arsene Wenger picked the 20-year-old at wing-back in the first half before switching him into central midfield at the break.
After looking lost in the first 45 minutes, Maitland-Niles began to show what he could do in the second half as Arsenal rallied.
Maitland-Niles played his role in a second half comeback as Arsenal overturned a 1-0 lead to win 3-1.
He touched the ball 88 times and completed 92 per cent of his passes, creating one goalscoring opportunity.
Defensively he got stuck in too, making two interceptions and three clearances.
Only qualifying for the Europa League was clearly disappointing for Arsenal, but by giving first team opportunities to young players they are approaching it in the right way.
Maitland-Niles’ display showed promise and the Gunners would be smart to give him further chances as the group stages progress.
Here is a look at how Arsenal fans reacted on Twitter to his performance…
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
