Oleksandr Zinchenko was left stunned by strength of Arsenal kid in training
Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko was left shocked by one youngster in the academy’s strength in training.
Mikel Arteta has promoted 18-year-old Reuell Walters to the first-team from the academy and he has already made an impact on some of the Arsenal stars.
That has included Zinchenko, who could not believe how strong Walters looked despite his tender age.
The left-back was speaking to Rio Ferdinand on his YouTube channel when he was asked about any hidden gems in the squad.
“I like so much centre-back Reuell,” the Ukraine international said.
“I think the qualities he has, he is aggressive. I swear to God, one time he pushed Gabriel Jesus in a shoulder-to-shoulder.
“It is not easy to push Gabriel because he is very strong, and he was confident on the ball afterwards, he kept the ball well and passed.
“Wow. He impresses me I think the most.”
Walters joined Arsenal in 2020 after leaving Tottenham the previous year.
He has been commended for his defensive attributes and plays as a centre-back.
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He is now a regular for the Arsenal Under-21s despite his age, though he is still awaiting his senior debut.
However, last season, Arteta called him up to the first team and he was an unused substitute on nine occasions.
The teenager also played for the Gunners during their pre-season tour of Germany and it might only be a matter of time before he gets his professional debut.
And if he keeps impressing his teammates, Walters might end up going on to become a star in his own right.
Zinchenko was also asked by Manchester United legend Ferdinand how Thomas Partey compared to Red Devils star Casemiro.
The 26-year-old said: “Listen, I don’t want to say something bad, he’s absolutely a world-class player as well, Casemiro, five Champions Leagues. But for me, if you wanted me to choose one, it would be Partey.
“I had the debate in my head, who is the best holding midfielder I have ever played with. It was between Fernandinho, Rodri and Partey.
“It’s a tough one. I watched Fernandinho when he was at Shakhtar and he helped me so much. I love him like an older brother, but Thomas Partey… I don’t know.”
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