The Sky Blues entertain Arsenal's Under-21s in Checkatrade Trophy action this evening, so we take a look at our opponents.
Opposition
After losing their first game of the season the Professional Development League Premier Division One, Arsenal have started to pick up form.
With wins in their last two fixtures against London rivals in the form of West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur, the Gunners now sit in second place.
One thing for sure is that goals haven’t been hard to come by for Per Mertesacker and Freddie Ljungberg.
Arsenal have scored eleven goals in their opening four games and possess a real threat going forward.
Manager
Germany World Cup winner, Per Mertesacker hung up his boots at the end of last season, taking up a role as Academy Manager.
The German is helping to develop the next crop of youngsters to come through the system at Arsenal for new boss Unai Emery.
Working alongside Per, is fellow Arsenal Legend, Freddie Ljungberg who has been helping to coach the Under-21’s this season.
The duo are expected to be in the dugout for tonight’s clash, as both get their Checkatrade Trophy campaign underway.
Results
Lost- Manchester City 6-5 Arsenal
Drew- Arsenal 1-1 Brighton
Win- West Ham 2-3 Arsenal
Win- Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur
Academy Graduates
Arsenal have had their fair share of Academy Graduates come through their system over the years, with the likes of Andy Cole, Martin Keown and Ray Parlour.
Looking at the three of the other names to come out of the Arsenal academy, midfielder Paul Merson joined the Academy in 1982, before breaking into the first team in 1985 befoe going on to make 327 appearances for the Gunners up until 1997.
Another legend of the club Tony Adams graduated from the academy in 1983 and would go on to become captain of the team at the age of 21 where he would stay captain for the next 14 years. As well as captaining The Gunners, he led the Three Lions to the semi-final in Euro 1996.
A recent graduate who has made a big name for himself is Jack Wilshere. The 26-year-old joined the academy in 2001 spending 7 years developing there, as well as having a large role in the 2009 FA Youth Cup winning team. Which in the same year he signed his first professional contract with The Gunners.
Sky Bet Odds
The Sky Blues are favourites heading into the fixture at the Ricoh Arena, with Sky Bet offering odds of 10/11, with a visitor win and a draw both placed at 12/5.
Click here to head to their website.
Tickets
Supporters can buy on the gate tonight at the Ricoh Arena, from turnstiles 40-43 for the West Stand.