After turning 16 last week, striker
Benik Afobe
has now signed scholarship terms with the club, securing his long term future.
Afobe celebrated his new contract by making his Reserve debut against Aston Villa in midweek, and capped off a fantastic week by featuring for England’s Under 17’s yesterday evening.
The young hit-man shot to prominence last season, when he scored 40 goals in 33 appearances for Steve Gatting’s Under 16’s. This term he was named skipper by Gatting, and currently has 14 goals in 12 games at that level.
However, Under 18 recognition has since arrived, and after scoring a vital equaliser on his debut at Fulham, Steve Bould has become a huge fan of the Dagenham born poacher.
A Youth Cup strike from the bench summed up a superb season for Benik, and although he has been full time since the summer, the new contract is an important one for both player and club.
Afobe will continue his education in the Hale End classrooms, and will now expect to kick on into the Reserves. A clause in the terms dictates that when Benik turns 17, his deal will automatically turn professional.
The future looks very bright for Benny, and Arsenal are set to reap the rewards of his talents in the coming years.
Article By – J.Sanderson