Thursday, August 7, 2014

1.Joel Campbell



The oldest player on this list by three years, Campbell approaches the 2014-15 season as something of an unknown quantity.

Despite joining in 2011 the striker is yet to play competitively for the Gunners having failed to secure a work permit, and has instead spent recent seasons on foreign shores.

But a series of fine showings for last season's loan club Olympiacos - most notably against Manchester United in the Champions League - and an impressive showing at the World Cup with Costa Rica have whetted the appetites of the Emirates faithful.
A forward blessed with that rare cocktail of pace and power, Campbell has the ability to force his way into Arsene Wenger's starting XI this season. He could be needed, too, with back-up to Olivier Giroud in the lone striking role in short supply.

It remains to be seen if Yaya Sanogo will be trusted to deputise - despite scoring four goals in the Emirates Cup against Benfica - and Campbell appears a more rounded talent than his fellow youngster.

At 22, Campbell must grab any opportunity that comes his way this season. If he can a goal-laden campaign may follow.