Marli Salmon has given Arsenal another defensive option to consider after helping Mikel Arteta’s side beat Ipswich 4-2.
The teenager started alongside Gabriel at Portman Road as Arsenal progressed to the Carabao Cup fourth round.
Max Dowman’s two goals drew much of the attention. However, Salmon’s involvement also mattered with several senior defenders missing.
The confirmed Arsenal line-up against Ipswich placed him centrally, with Martín Zubimendi and Myles Lewis-Skelly occupying the full-back positions.
That gave Arteta an opportunity to assess Salmon alongside an experienced defensive partner during a competitive away fixture.
Marli Salmon gives Arsenal another option
Arteta included Salmon when discussing the satisfaction of watching academy players compete at senior level.
“A joy to have him, Marli as well,” he said in his post-match press conference, reported by Tom Canton.
The Arsenal manager also praised the youngsters’ ability to handle the physical demands of facing Premier League opposition.
Those comments offer encouragement, although one cup appearance does not establish Salmon’s place in the league hierarchy.
Arsenal conceded twice after building a four-goal lead. The result therefore provides useful experience rather than evidence of a finished defensive solution.
For Salmon, the important step was taking responsibility within a much-changed senior side.
Brighton puts Arsenal’s defensive depth in focus
Attention now turns to Saturday’s trip to Brighton, with the latest Arsenal injury round-up detailing concerns around Arteta’s defensive options.
Salmon’s involvement gives that discussion another dimension. He now has a recent competitive appearance for Arteta to assess when considering his next squad.
A Brighton start remains a separate decision, dependent on fitness updates, the opposition and the balance of the defence.
However, opportunities like Tuesday’s matter beyond the immediate result. Developing another trusted option would help Arteta manage a schedule spanning several competitions.
Dowman supplied the headline moment at Ipswich. Salmon took a meaningful step of his own.
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