Marli Salmon gets Arsenal first team chance

Teenage defender Marli Salmon has taken another big step in his rapid rise by travelling with Arsenal’s first-team squad for the Champions League quarter-final first leg away to Sporting Lisbon.

The 16-year-old is in the group heading to Portugal as the Gunners look to respond after a difficult week.

Salmon was on the bench for Saturday’s FA Cup defeat to Southampton, a result that confirmed Arsenal’s exit from both domestic cup competitions following their earlier Carabao Cup final loss. Despite that disappointment, the youngster’s presence around the senior group underlines the faith the club has in his potential.

The defender has already made four senior appearances this season, including a cameo in the Champions League against Club Brugge. Those minutes have given him an early taste of top-level football and helped him adjust to the demands of Mikel Arteta’s side.

His inclusion in the travelling squad also reflects Arsenal’s current injury issues, which have stretched defensive options. Even if he does not feature on the pitch in Lisbon, the experience of preparing for and being part of such a high-stakes European night at just 16 could prove hugely valuable for Salmon’s development.