Ben Sheaf was one of Arsenal’s best performers against Manchester City on Monday night as the sides played out an exciting 3-3 draw.
Watch all Arsenal’s goals against Manchester City in their 3-3 draw
The talented 19-year-old joined from West Ham’s academy in 2011 and has developed significantly in recent seasons. Alongside Krystian Bielik this term for the u23s, Sheaf has played in an unfamiliar role at centre-back but on a weekly basis, continues to improve and work on his weaknesses.
Speaking straight after the 3-3 draw with Manchester City, Sheaf had this to say when questioned by Arsenal’s Matchday Show host Joel Beya: “It was [a tough game]. Coming here we knew they were a top side, second in the league obviously but the boys dug deep, showed great attitude and managed to nick the goal at the end.”
On what Steve Gatting had said to the players during their half-time team talk: “We knew we created chances, he said to just keep at it. We had to push in a little at the end, managed to nick a few goals then.”
When speaking about his suitability to play in a number of positions across the pitch, he was confident and equally honest with how he’s finding the whole experience.
About the swap to play as a centre-half: “Last season, I played in central midfield and a little at right-back. I played a little here, there and everywhere really. This season I’ve played centre-back every game, really enjoyed it and am enjoying the responsibility as captain. I can just hope this continues until the end of the season.”
Now confident as a central defender as well as the centre of midfield, there is genuine promise that suggests he could be one of the youngsters to breakthrough over the next twelve months.
His quality shines through in a relatively youthful u23 squad at times and, defensively, he’s an assured player whilst remaining comfortable in possession.