'He wants to make things happen' - Mikel Arteta stunned by Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri and backs midfielder to 'dictate' his progress after impressive Carabao Cup display

Nwaneri was given a rare start by Arteta for the Carabao Cup clash against Preston, and the 17-year-old was able to impress Arsenal fans as he scored in the first half as they cruised to a 3-0 win to secure their passage into the quarter-finals.

Nwaneri has been seen as a potential star by Arsenal fans as the 17-year-old has shown a lot of promise in the youth system and has also surprised in his limited time with the senior team. The youngster scored his first senior goals with a brace in Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Bolton in the previous round of the Carabao Cup. Arteta has now praised the Hale End graduate after his stunning showing at Deepdale.

When asked how impressive Nwaneri was, Arteta said: "He did it yesterday in training so we’re getting used to that. He’s a big talent, he’s got the right attitude, he’s got the right players and context around him and we need to make sure that we put brick by brick. But we have some player there!"

Asked how he can ensure the player doesn't get stifled, Arteta said: "He’s going to really dictate how that’s gonna go. But I’m really, really happy with him... He wants to make every ball, he wants to make things happen. Outside, around the boys, he’s still a bit quiet but that’s usual. He’s still only 17 years old. His work ethic is tremendous and he loves what he does."

Despite his impressive showings in the Carabao Cup, it is unlikely that Nwaneri will be a starter for Arteta in their next clash in the Premier League against Newcastle on Saturday, November 2.