Having broken into the Arsenal team as a wing-back this summer, Arsene Wenger is pleased that Reiss Nelson is gaining a defensive education.
Reiss Nelson has impressed for Arsenal this pre-season, despite turning out in an unfamiliar wing-back role.
The 17-year-old debuted against Sydney FC earlier this month on the right-hand side of a five-man defence and instantly stood out.
Arsenal switched to a formation that incorporated a back five towards the end of last season after seeing Chelsea romp to the title with a similar system – and Nelson has fitted in seamlessly.
Indeed, Nelson’s impact on the first team has been so striking that he has again been selected for senior duties at Arsenal’s Emirates Cup.
But even if he is again selected in a defensive role, that is not where Wenger sees the London-born youngster playing in the future – although he is pleased that the player is being educated.
“He’s a more offensive player, more a guy who can play as one of the three strikers or as an offensive midfielder,” Wenger told Arsenal’s official website.
“What is good for his education is to play in this position as well because we learn how to cope with defensive responsibilities, and that’s a good part of the education of the modern player.”
Arsenal look set to continue with this new formation heading into the Premier League season and Nelson’s encouraging displays can only make a competitive debut more likely.
With some Gunners players – namely Kieran Gibbs, who has been left out of the Emirates Cup squad – struggling to adapt to a change in system, Nelson can be pleased with his progress this summer.
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