Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has expressed concerns over the potential inclusion of 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri in England’s senior squad under new coach Thomas Tuchel.
Nwaneri, who has Nigerian heritage, has been a standout performer for Arsenal this season, scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 28 appearances.
Keown worries that a senior national team call-up might be premature for Nwaneri, considering his age and physical development.
He observed that Nwaneri has appeared fatigued in recent matches, which is typical for a 17-year-old still maturing physically.
Keown suggests that it might be more beneficial for Nwaneri to rest during international breaks, allowing him time to recover and reduce the risk of burnout.
Keown said on TNT Sports: “There’s a chance (Nwaneri) may make the international team. That’s a concern, that’s a worry.
“You take it if it comes but if it doesn’t, then he gets a nice bit of time with the manager, resting up between games so there’s a balance.
“It does one thing for confidence but another for the body. When you’re 17, you’re not even fully developed in terms of your cardiovascular system. You’re not really a man yet.”
Nwaneri is also eligible to represent Nigeria but the moment, it seems the 17-year-old is tilted towards England.
