Arsenal keeper Arthur Okonkwo, 19, promoted to first-team training as Gunners prepare for FA Cup clash vs Newcastle

YOUNG Arsenal stopper Arthur Okonkwo has been promoted to first-team training ahead of their FA Cup clash with Newcastle.

Boss Mikel Arteta is expected to ring the changes against Steve Bruce’s men for Saturday’s clash.

Arthur Okonkwo has trained with the Arsenal first teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty

And it could mean a first appearance for the 19-year-old keeper.

Icelandic keeper Alex Runarsson is currently Arsenal’s second choice between the sticks but he has failed to impress in his five matches this season.

The 25-year-old made a howler in his last outing when Riyad Mahrez’s free-kick slipped through his hands in the 4-1 EFL Cup defeat to Manchester City.

Runarsson’s distribution has also been called into question with Arteta eager to maintain his possession-based style.

Okonkwo, who has played for Arsenal’s Under-23 side, missed a year of action following health issues.

But he returned to the field in June and is hoping to get his first taste of action with the senior squad.

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The young stopper joined the Arsenal academy aged 7Credit: Getty Images – Getty

Okonkwo joined Arsenal as a seven-year-old and has risen through the age groups having also played for England’s youth sides.

Standing at 6ft 4in, he is known to be comfortable in his distribution and boasts the qualities Arteta likes to see in a goalkeeper.

Meanwhile Arsenal keeper Matt Macey, 26, is set to join Hibernian on a permanent deal.

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk