10 Youth Prospects Who Could Change Arsenal's Future
9. Joel Campbell
Campbell sidesteps Michael Carrick. He shifts the ball into space and he's hit it! GOAL! Campbell scores an exquisite curler from 30 yards and United are in all kinds of trouble now...
Campbells goal against Manchester United in the Champions League last season forced the football world to sit up and take notice. The Costa Rican had began his career at his hometown club of Deportivo Saprissa in 2009, and after only a handful of first-team appearances interest in his signature began to flock from Europe's elite. In the end it was Arsenal who secured the relatively unknown wingers signature, landing him on a five-year deal in 2011. But, unable to gain a work permit, Campbell was sent on a season-long loan to Lorient in France, whom he helped avoid relegation. Fast forward to the summer of 2013 and Campbell secured a work permit but Arsene Wenger opted for a third successive loan spell with Greek giants Olympiakos to aid the players development. With five games to spare this season they were crowned league champions, and there can be no doubting the contribution of Campbell to that achievement. Four assists in the 5-1 win over Crete and two more against PAOK are an impressive addition for his 11 goals in all competitions and suggested his value to the rest of the team. He floats effortlessly between wide and central positions, exposing the cracks in the defences of even the most rigid systems. Equally capable with both feet, with lightning speed and an eye for improvisation, the Costa Rican exudes a confidence well beyond his years and after an impressive World Cup campaign, it would't be a surprise if Wenger chooses 2014 as the season to unleash his latest talent.
I have been described as a sportsman with the brain of an athlete and the body of a scientist. Since it was established that playing wouldn't work out for me I have taken to writing.
