If history is anything to go by, 2016 could be the year that Arsenal finally gets their hands back on the FA Youth Cup.
In 2009 Arsenal lifted the trophy as they defeated Liverpool in the final – their side that year included present first team stars Francis Coquelin and Jack Wilshere.
Manchester City v Arsenal
FA Youth Cup
Semi-final first leg
Academy Stadium
7pm Friday 18 March 2016
They also defeated Manchester City in the last four, winning the second leg 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium as England midfielder Wilshere scored from the penalty spot.
Fast forward to 2016 and Arsenal knocked Liverpool out in the sixth round and now face Manchester City again in Friday’s semi-final first leg in a repeat of the 2009 last-four clash.
The balance of power may have shifted in recent seasons; it’s now Manchester City who are the dominant force in English football.
But who would bet against a repeat showing for Arsenal this season?
Watch Arsenal's FA Youth Cup quarter-final win over Liverpool
And Chiori Johnson, an energetic full-back who signed his first professional contract at the start of the year after impressing for Arsenal’s academy sides, is hoping to follow the likes of Wilshere into the history books.
The versatile defender – who can play on the left or right of the back four – has suffered an injury-plagued campaign.
But after returning to full fitness he has sights firmly set on upsetting Manchester City.
“It would be massive for me,” said Johnson. “It’s great to be back.
“After seven months out injured, coming back playing is a huge relief. I [want to] get back on track, pushing on from where I was before and get back to it.
“I had a bad knee injury and I had to have two operations on it.
“It is annoying missing games because there is not a thing you can do. But it is the perfect way to come back. It is my last year to play in this competition, so I’m happy to be in with winning it this year.
Watch Man City's FA Youth Cup quarter-final win over Norwich
“The FA Youth Cup is such a massive competition in England, so winning it would be great. We have a big chance. We have a strong team and we are in a good place right now.
“I know Manchester City are a good side. They have decent players, so we will need to be at the top of our game to get the victory.”
Manchester City were runners-up last season, losing 5-2 on aggregate to Chelsea in the final.
But manager Jason Wilcox is confident his City youngsters can see off Arsenal over two legs and go all the way in the competition.
“When you get to the semi-final stage you know you're going to be coming up against a strong outfit," he said.
“Arsenal, we'll look forward to it. I don't think anybody will relish playing us.
“Over two legs, I'd fancy us against anybody because we've got fantastic talent and a fantastic work ethic.”
