Former Arsenal midfielder turned youth head coach Jack Wilshere has called upon fans to prove they're better than rivals Manchester United by showing up for the FA Youth Cup final. The under-18s side are set to host the competition at the Emirates Stadium against either West Ham or Southampton later this month.
The young Gunners booked their place in the final after a dramatic semi-final clash on Tuesday night against Manchester City. A packed 10,000-capacity crowd watched the tie as goals from Michal Rosiak and Justin Oboavwoduo left things all squared after 90 minutes - despite the away side spending the majority of the game reduced to ten after a red card for Lakyle Samuel.
Extra time was played and it seemed almost certain that proceedings would go towards a penalty shootout, but there was still drama to be had. With one of the final kicks of the game, Myles Lewis-Skelly struck the ball home and sent the squad into rapturous scenes at winning it late on.
READ MORE: Aaron Ramsdale admitted Liverpool 'YNWA' tactic unlikely to be repeated in next Arsenal training
After the game, head coach Wilshere claimed he wants to see an even larger attendance feature at the Emirates Stadium for the final, taking aim at Manchester United at the same time. “I watched the Youth Cup final last year [Man United vs Nottingham Forest and there was 60,000 [people] there. And I know that our fans are better than Man United fans.
“I hope we can [get a big attendance]. I don’t see why not. I think we had like 25,000 in 2009 [33,662 in Arsenal's 6-2 win over Liverpool], it was nice. So listen, let’s build it. I watch the women’s games and that energy and that feeling they create. What the fans can create, is special. I want the players to experience that. Let’s get the fans down and get their support.”
It remains to be seen exactly which side the academy side will face in the final, however Wilshere has sent his message loud and clear on the support he hopes for his youngster to receive on the day.
READ NEXT:
Three things that will 'definitely' happen to Arsenal if Julian Nagelsmann is appointed at Chelsea
William Saliba, Ben White: Arsenal injury news and return dates ahead of Liverpool clash
Gary Neville explains the one reason why Arsenal are now title favourites ahead of Man City
Arsenal's three immediate options if Mikel Arteta is without William Saliba against Liverpool
