Wenger believes in Arsenal youngsters’ futures

ARSENE Wenger will rotate his squad for Arsenal’s Carabao Cup quarterfinal clash with West Ham and has backed the latest crop of young players to become the future of the club.

The Frenchman has a history of using the competition as a way of blooding talent in the first team and that has been the case again this season.

The Gunners welcome West Ham to the Emirates Stadium looking to reach the semi-final of the only domestic competition Wenger has not won since taking charge of the club 21 years ago.

With his side having looked lethargic in Saturday’s 1-0 Premier League win over Newcastle and on the back of two away draws against Southampton and the Hammers, it is clear Wenger will once again shuffle his pack tonight.

While that could mean starts for international players such as Danny Welbeck, Mathieu Debuchy and Mohamed Elneny, it is also a chance for Wenger’s young ensemble to impress.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has started the last two league games having caught the eye in the Carabao Cup and Europa League this campaign.

And Wenger will continue to give chances to his young stars, such as Matt Macey, Joe Willock and Eddie Nketiah — who scored twice off the bench against Norwich in round four.

“It’s a very exciting bunch of young players,” Wenger said.

“I made the decision a few months ago to try keep them at the club because I believe they all have futures at the club.

“I am convinced as well but it is very important for Arsenal to continue giving chances to young players we educate here.”