Ethan Nwaneri impresses in Arsenal’s victory against Brentford

Against Brentford, however, Arteta used Nwaneri in the role that Saka had perfected, stepping in as a left-footed right winger. And Arsenal seemed much more coherent.

In the first half, Nwaneri and Martinelli had the fewest touches of any outfield player, but the teenager impressed with the little ball he had. He was the only player to complete all of his passes in that initial period: 17 of 17.

It was a test to see if he could step up in the second half when Arsenal needed him. It was an exam that the college-age student passed with flying colors.

“He just makes me smile,” TNT Sports insider Karen Carney said of Nwaneri. “He is brave, bold, for someone so young.

“For a youngster he was extraordinary. He was positive and a pleasure to watch. I can’t believe how young he is; he will be an absolute player for Arsenal.”

“He will certainly have opportunities if Saka is not available,” added former Arsenal defender Martin Keown. “It’s all there under the hood waiting to come out.

“It’s really important to have those players in the group showing the quality that comes out of the academy.”

Arteta has treated Nwaneri with kid gloves since his debut but felt this was the time and place to give him the most attention of his career so far.

“We had a 17-year-old in the starting XI who did very well,” Arteta said in his post-match press conference. “I thought Ethan was the best player in that position to start the game. He also made his Premier League debut here, sometimes a feeling like that can help.

“It’s patience, managing frustration and expectations. We’re building it.”