Arsene Wenger plans to take a good look at Ryo Miyaichi during pre-season to gauge his progress.
Japanese starlet set for chance to impress this summer
Arsene Wenger plans to take a good look at Ryo Miyaichi during Arsenal's pre-season to gauge whether he is ready to fight for a first-team spot.
The 18-year-old forward penned a long-term deal with the Gunners in January before being sent out on loan to Eredivisie giants Feyenoord.
The Japanese starlet has impressed in the Dutch top-flight, establishing himself as a first-team regular and notching up 12 appearances.
Arsenal boss Wenger has revealed that, if all goes well, the club could consider applying for a work permit for Miyaichi ahead of the 2011/12 season.
"I have only [heard] positive reports about him. He will be with us in pre-season," said the Frenchman.
"I think he is good enough, but if he is ready enough to have a place in our team, we will ask for a work permit and try to get him in.
Important
"What I like about Ryo is that he has good timing with his runs and understands when to go and where to go. That is something very important.
"He knows how to use his pace and he is an intelligent player.
"He is a boy who went straight from school football to professional football and straight away was the best player in Feyenoord."
Miyaichi has been called up to the Japanese Under 23 squad aiming to qualify for the 2012 Olympics, which could in turn boost his application with the Home Office.
Wenger added: "He looks a very promising boy and everybody who went to watch him has been hugely impressed by him.
"Ryo is a character and a great football player."
