Wenger: Ex-Cobbler Randall is an exceptional talent
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is backing former Northampton Town youngster Mark Randall to hit the big time.
The 19-year-old, who was born in Milton Keynes, spent three years with the Cobblers youth set-up before switching to the Gunners.
Midfielder Randall played 10 games on loan at Burnley last season and played 70 minutes in the Carling Cup clash at Turf Moor on Tuesday evening.
Wenger says Randall may not have the profile of players like 16-year-old prodigy Jack Wilshere but has comparable talent.
"He has as much as Jack Wilshere," said Wenger. "I think he is a little bit more of a late developer but he is exceptional.
"One thing I have learned in my career is that those who keep going, no matter what is said of them, will make a career.
"You may see in the newspapers that a guy is not in the first XI of the season but, if until October that guy still works hard every day, in November he is in the first XI.
"Mental strength and daily motivation is more important than what people say about you.
"I am impressed with the progress Mark Randall has made. He has made a fantastic step forward recently and I am sure we will see that again in this game."
Randall named in Arsenal staring line-up - click here
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