Demiane Agustien says there is an Arsenal first-team star who has ‘really surprised’ him in training

Agustien, who is a versatile central midfielder, has made 12 appearances for the academy this season, including in the UEFA Youth Champions League.

He is considered a huge talent, which is why he is likely to train with the first team, and the Netherlands youth international has praised one Gunners star in particular.

Demiane Agustien salutes the quality of Bukayo Saka

Demiane Agustien admitted Bukayo Saka’s quality had “really surprised” him in training, and he also praised Declan Rice.

Saka, who is also a Hale End product, is one of the biggest stars in the Premier League and working with a player like that is a dream for Agustien.

Meanwhile, facing Rice and trying to beat him in practice is another challenge the youngster is enjoying.

Agustien told ESPN NL: “You suddenly have to get past Declan Rice, of course. And that’s not something everyone can do, you know.

“But yes, everyone has real qualities; everyone is really good, and I think Saka really surprised me, actually.

“A few players, everyone is just at the highest level. You can see that too: everyone wants to win. It’s a good culture to have. Really nice.”

Demiane Agustien on Declan Rice’s kick

Agustien also joked about how Rice had muscled up in training, and the young midfielder admits he quickly learned his lesson after trying it once.

He was asked: “Rice, have you already muscled him? Or don’t you dare?” to which Agustien replied: “No, I don’t dare, no way. I did it once and I got kicked in the shin straight away. So yeah, I learned my lesson quickly, yeah.”

At present, the teenager is still finding his feet in north London and settling into U-21 football with the Gunners.

He seems a long way from making Mikel Arteta’s first team, but his talent is certainly there for all to see in the academy.