To me the last couple of points might suggest that Wenger has little doubt that Watt has the talent to make a breakthrough at Arsenal, but has warned him to work harder and concentrate on his career.
Neil Banfield has been delighted with Watt and indeed the whole squad, and it is his objective to have his squad ready for the potential jump to the first-team.
When asked about Watt specifically after this week’s reserve team win over Norwich Banfield had this to say:
‘Sanchez is in a rich vein of form and he is doing well. We don’t really like to talk about individuals – the whole team is doing well. The whole team is working hard at the moment and trying to direct their careers towards the first-team squad.
‘They want to impress the manager – there were senior staff watching again today. They’re all trying extremely hard.’
It will be an interesting transfer window on so many levels this winter. Many supporters still want the big name signing to boost the improving first-team, whilst the likes of Coquelin, Ozyakup, Aneke and Watt are probably wishing the opposite. It would be lovely to see a London boy leading the line for Arsenal, to follow legends such as George and Wright, but I am far from certain that Watt can be in that class. What is certain is that Watt has the Wilshere, Frimpong style Arsenal DNA, and if he is not given the chance we will never know.
With so many of our so called promising youth being released over the summer, those that remain, many like Watt, who have been given new long-term deals, are just working hard for a big breakthrough or perhaps a loan at Christmas. It would be a tough pill for Watt to swallow, as he must feel he has proved himself with his time at Leeds, not once but twice, and his scoring for fun. However, one last quote shows he is willing to work as hard as he can whatever ‘Le Boss’ decides:
‘The next step for me is trying to push myself more into the boss’ mind so I can either get on the bench or play in any way I can. Even going out on loan and playing every game. I just have to work hard for my chance.’
I hope he does get a break, but with Man City in the next round of the Carling Cup, it seems unlikely this side of Christmas, so a loan to a footballing side in the Campionship might be his best bet for first-team football.
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