Marli Salmon

Max Dowman and Marli Salmon both missed Arsenal’s u21 game on Saturday, perhaps hinting at first-team call-ups amid doubts around Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Arsenal youngster Marli Salmon was one of a few academy players involved in first-team training on Thursday, after being tipped as the club’s top first-year scholar this season.

Arsenal U21s fell 3-2 to Fulham in their PL2 opener as Max Porter’s side recovered from 2-0 down before conceding late at Meadow Park.

Arsenal have begun to thin down their squad after the pre-season tour of Asia, but 15-year-old duo Max Dowman and Marli Salmon remain involved in training.

David Raya has praised 15-year-old duo Marli Salmon and Max Dowman, after the pair made their pre-season debuts for the Arsenal first team this week.

Mikel Arteta explains why Jurrien Timber and Gabriel Magalhães missed the win over AC Milan, stressing both absences were precautionary during pre-season.

Bukayo Saka’s goal secured a 1-0 win over AC Milan as new signings Martin Zubimendi, Christian Nørgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga made their first appearances.

At least eight players from the Arsenal academy were involved in first-team training on Wednesday, with u18 coach Adam Birchall also joining the session.