Grecians set to take no chances with the names mentioned as being involved
19:40, 27 Oct 2025
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Exeter City will be looking to continue the momentum from their Devon Derby victory over Plymouth Argyle and keep alive their chances of progressing in the Vertu Trophy. And a strong side is set to take to the field at St James Park tomorrow when they face Arsenal’s U21s.
The Grecians were beaten 1-0 by Cardiff City in their opening group game last month. Arsenal U21s began with a 2-1 win away to Newport County – who then in turn beat Cardiff 1-0. So if Exeter can beat the Premier League academy side on Tuesday, it will put all four teams on three points and set up a final day knockout shootout.
When Arsenal visited St James Park two seasons ago they came away with a 5-0 victory against a very young City side. Those memories are still in the back of City minds – it came off the back of that 9-0 to Reading – and Gary Caldwell has taken the competition more seriously and fielded stronger teams in the past two seasons as a result.
The Grecians will almost certainly rotate the side but it is still likely to be a strong eleven with plenty of experience. Indeed, assistant manager Kevin Nicholson revealed some of the names who would start in Monday’s press conference, and it is even stronger than anticipated.
Jack Bycroft will take the gloves in goal, but Nicholson name-checked Josh Magennis, Pierce Sweeney, Ilmari Niskanen, Jack Aitchison and Ed Francis as those set to start, as well as Kieran Wilson – while the likes of Tom Dean and Liam Oakes are also set to be involved from the off.
Josh Magennis of Exeter City celebrates after winning during the Sky Bet League Match between Exeter City and Plymouth Argyle at St James Park, Devon on 23rd Oct 2025. Photo: Frankie OKeeffe/PPAUK
“They are what you expect Arsenal to be, athleticism, pace, technique, they try and play, but we are putting on a strong team and we want to build on that momentum,” Nicholson said. “Josh Magennis will be playing, Sweenz will be playing, Immy will be playing, Ed Francis will be playing and we are putting out a good mix and experience, and Oakesy and Deano, Birchy on the bench, Kieran starting.
“We have to win this game. We have to make sure Arsenal see how good we can be and we nullify their flair and make it a really difficult night for them.
“We have set ourselves a bare minimum for every game going forward and we can hold them accountable for that. There is an opportunity for us to build some momentum and go on a winning streak, get into the next round of cups, and everyone is fighting for places.”
“We are not a big squad and there is a chance for those who have done well in pre-season to establish themselves. They need to go and grab in and be front foot, but not going to be easy. It is there for them, they have opportunity so have to be brave and take the opportunity,” he said of the youngsters to be involved.
“At the same time Ed Francis needs to be sharp and ready, Jack Aitchsion to show back to full fitness and show he wants to start the next league game, so it is important to build momentum off the back of Thursday.”
Jack Aitchison of Exeter City during the Sky Bet League Match between Exeter City and Plymouth Argyle at St James Park, Devon on 23rd Oct 2025. Photo: Frankie OKeeffe/PPAUK
Defeat to Arsenal wouldn’t see City exit the competition – but would need a specific series of results on the final day to progress. But post that famous 2-0 win over Argyle on Thursday, Caldwell was clear that this game is just as important and that cup progression is high on his agenda for the season.“We have two big cup games now and have to use them as a springboard for more. Cup competitions will be important so there is a lot to do,” he said.
