Sixteen-year-old Arsenal sensation Gideon Zelalem was named as a substitute for the Premier League match against Fulham at Craven Cottage – just 48 hours after receiving his GCSE results.
Zelalem was rewarded for his impressive pre-season performances but boss Arsene Wenger opted against bringing the central midfielder on during Arsenal’s 3-1 victory.
If Zelalem, who was born on January 26, 1997, features for Arsenal before mid-December, he will become the club’s youngest ever player.
On the bench: Zelalem (3rd from right) was a substitute for Arsenal at Fulham
No fear: Gedion Zelalem tugs Aaron Ramsey’s shirt during training
The current record holder is Jack Wilshere, who made his debut at 16 years and 329 days against Blackburn in September 2008.
Zelalem joined Arsenal in January after being spotted by scouts while playing for American team Olney Rangers, who are based 20 miles north of Washington D.C.
Born to Ethopian parents, central midfielder Zelalem – who has already drawn comparisons to Cesc Fabregas – was raised in Germany and is an under-16 German international.
Teen sensations: Zelalem (left) could replace Jack Wilshere (right) as Arsenal’s youngest ever player
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
