Football.London reported that the youngsters joined existing academy prospects Max Dowman and Marli Salmon at the Sobha Realty Training Ground ahead of the fourth-round match at Fleetwood’s Highbury Stadium. Andre Harriman-Annous, Ceadach O’Neill, Marcell Washington, Theo Julienne, Igor Tyjon and Ife Ibrahim were also involved.
The match is a major occasion for Fleetwood, who have sold out their stadium for the first time in more than a decade. Manager Matt Lawlor has urged his players to enjoy the occasion rather than be intimidated by Arsenal’s status.
“It is an amazing night for the club and an amazing night for the fans, the town and the area,” Lawlor told BBC Radio Lancashire.
“We have sold out for the first time in 11 or 12 years, which is unbelievable, and it is an amazing thing to be a part of. We are glad that it is here, and we are glad that we are welcoming the best team in the country and the champions of last year to Highbury.
“The champions are coming to town on our patch, and it’s on telly, so if you can’t get up for this game, you can’t get up for any game. The players need to be excited for it, but while respect is through the roof, the fear can’t be.”
Arteta’s training call-ups underline the opportunity the tie offers for young players to impress, although several may be unavailable because Arsenal’s under-21s are also scheduled to play AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Trophy.
That group-stage fixture is the final one for the development side, who should qualify for the knockout stages with a draw provided Leyton Orient do not beat Barnet. The schedule could therefore limit the number of academy players available to Arteta on Tuesday.
Arsenal are expected to make changes, but Fleetwood will still face a significant challenge against the reigning champions. Lawlor’s message is to respect Arsenal’s achievements without allowing the occasion to become intimidating.