England recognition, initially at Under-21 level, is certain to follow but safeguarding rules mean that, unlike fellow breakthrough star Myles Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri still isn’t allowed to change in the dressing room on matchdays.

In each of the past four Premier League campaigns, Arsenal have recorded more points than the season before: from a nadir of 56 points (eighth) after Arteta took over midway through the 2019-20, to 61 points (eighth), to 69 points (fifth), to 84 points (second) to 89 points (second) last season, just two points behind champions Manchester City.

Mikel Arteta admits he was disappointed Arsenal did not sign a new striker but believes it is not a gamble in the club’s bid for Premier League glory. The Gunners ramped up their pursuit of a forward after Gabriel Jesus suffered a season-ending injury in their FA Cup exit against Manchester United on January 12.