Former Arsenal academy product Sanchez Watt has confirmed his plans to return to the club and work at Hale End, but he’s not there yet.

Arsenal's Mexican striker Carlos Vela (L) celebrates scoring the second goal with teammate Sanchez Watt (R) during their Carling Cup 3rd round match against West Bromwich Albion at the Emirates, London, on September 22, 2009. AFP PHOTO/GLYN KIRK
Arsenal’s Mexican striker Carlos Vela (L) celebrates scoring the second goal with teammate Sanchez Watt (R) during their Carling Cup 3rd round match against West Bromwich Albion at the Emirates, London, on September 22, 2009. AFP PHOTO/GLYN KIRK

Writing on Twitter, Sanchez Watt confirmed he’s already held meetings with Arsenal academy chief Per Mertesacker about returning to the club to work with the young players at Hale End.

The 29-year-old still needs his coaching badges and explains that the pandemic has slowed him down. However, he’s still hopeful he can earn his chance back in North London.

Arsenal u16 coach Dan Buck replied to the tweet to offer his support, saying: “Just shout if you need any help with your badges. Will be good to see you back home.”

Watt initially joined Arsenal all the way back in 1998, when he was just seven years old. He spent 15 years with the club, making three first-team appearances and scoring one goal. But after six loan spells, he moved to Colchester United permanently in 2013.

Seven-and-a-half years later, after various injuries stunted his playing career, Watt is looking to make his name in coaching, giving back to his old club. It would be nice to see him getting an opportunity to help the next generation step up.