Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Jack Porter has been prepared for his first start since pre season. The 16-year old made his debut for the Gunners in their EFL cup game against Bolton Wanderers on Wednesday night.
The teenager was not really troubled as Arsenal stormed to a 5-1 victory. A brace from Ethan Nwaneri, and goals from Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Raheem Sterling were enough to seal the win. The Gunners are through to the next round of the competition.
Before the game, Mikel Arteta mentioned that Arsenal want to win every competition this season, no matter how ‘small’.
Jack Porter makes history with Arsenal debut
The Gunners were without first choice goalkeeper David Raya who was out with a minor injury. Arteta had to rely on Jack Porter who only learned that he would start against Bolton on Tuesday night:
“Well, we told him yesterday and he was over the moon straight away. I think he spoke to his family. And yeah, they weren’t prepared for that. It’s a big step. It’s a big occasion for them. And I think they were nervous about it. But I think he reacted really well. He was really composed yesterday in training today as well. His teammates really helped him as well on that. And what an experience and what a way to break a record.”
Porter could be counted on for the rest of the competition, due to backup keeper Neto being cup tied earlier this season. But that would be a very bold call by Mikel Arteta.
Teenage keeper was ready for first team action
Mikel Arteta adds that one of the reasons he trusted Porter in goal on Wednesday is because of how familiar the youngster is with the first team players, having been part of pre-season with the gunners.
“Jack has been training with us since pre-season, we’re confident he can do the role obviously he plays in the international team, we’ve seen what he can do and we believe he was the right choice.”
The Gunners boss also mentioned how pleased he was with the keeper’s confidence during the game. Arteta says Jack Porter was able to handle the occasion like a first team player and that it helped on the night:
“In Jack? I wasn’t thrown in like this. I had a situation at 17 when I went to Paris when I went from playing in the B team to Paris that was a big step, I know a little bit how he feels, but I had a little bit more time to prepare than Jack.”
Arsenal are away to Preston North End in the fourth round of the EFL Cup.
