Arsenal u18 captain Matt Smith has had an impressive season in 2018/19, leading his team to the top of the table with some impressive goals and assists on the way.

Matt Smith signing his first professional contract with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Matt Smith signing his first professional contract with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)

18-year-old midfielder Smith signed his first professional contract with Arsenal at the end of February, after proving himself with a strong campaign at u18 level. The youngster has five goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season, despite playing deep in the team’s midfield.

Smith’s biggest strength is undoubtedly his passing range, with the ability to play a pass half the length of the pitch just as effectively as a short pass to a nearby teammate. That’s why he’s ended up with so many assists, and striker Folarin Balogun, in particular, has benefitted from having the English teenager behind him.

Here’s a full compilation of Smith’s season so far:

The player’s target now has to be to push on and do the same thing with the u23s. He’s had a hard time getting into the top academy team this season, with the likes of Joe Willock, Charlie Gilmour, Ben Sheaf and Robbie Burton taking up spaces.

Loans and departures over the summer should give Smith the chance to fill in and set up next year though. Let’s hope he can seize the opportunity as he has been with the u18s.