Chapter 12: Building on the Momentum

James had dreamed of this moment for as long as he could remember—scoring his first goal in the Premier League for Arsenal. The thrill of the match was still fresh in his mind, but now, the hard work of maintaining his place in the first team began. He had proven his ability in one game, but one performance wouldn't be enough to cement his spot. To stay with the senior squad, he would need to continue delivering in every match and training session.

The following week, the buzz around James only grew. His goal had been the talk of the media, with many pundits praising his composure and skill. Arsenal fans were also singing his praises, creating buzz on social media and calling for him to be included in the starting lineup. But James knew better than to get swept up in the hype. This was only the beginning.

In the days that followed his debut, James threw himself into training with renewed focus. Arsène Wenger had already made it clear that his debut goal wouldn't guarantee him a permanent spot in the starting XI. Every training session was crucial. He could not afford to relax or believe the hype. The pressure to stay at this level and continue to improve was heavier than ever.

During training, James worked closely with Robin van Persie, whose goal-scoring prowess had long been admired by everyone at the club. Robin was eager to offer James guidance, knowing how tough the journey could be.

"Focus on your positioning and composure," Robin advised him one morning during a finishing drill. "When the chances come, you can't rush. Take your time, even if it's just a split second. You'll be surprised at how much that matters."

James nodded, listening intently. Robin had been through it all, and every piece of advice felt like gold.

Theo Walcott, who had become a close friend during their time together in the squad, also kept him grounded. "You've shown you can handle the pressure, mate. But now, it's all about consistency. One good performance is great, but it's the follow-up that proves you belong."

The following week, Arsenal had a League Cup match scheduled against a lower-league side, and Wenger decided to give James another chance to start. This was the perfect opportunity for him to prove that his goal against Manchester City wasn't a one-off and that he could contribute regularly to the first team.

James couldn't believe it—he had gone from a benchwarmer to starting in two major competitions. The thought of wearing the Arsenal shirt again, this time with even more responsibility, was overwhelming, but he knew he was ready.

As he prepared for the match, James checked his phone. His family had already sent him a message:

"We're so proud of you, James! Another big chance! We'll be watching and cheering for you all the way!" – Mum

"We believe in you, bro! Another goal? Let's do it!" – Lucas

With their words echoing in his mind, James put his phone away and refocused. He was determined to show that he was more than just a flash of brilliance in one game.

The match kicked off with high intensity. Arsenal was favored to win, but James knew that every match in the senior squad was a fight, no matter the opponent. His teammates, while clearly the more talented side, were treating this match like it was just as important as any other. They all wanted to win, but for James, it was about proving that he deserved a place in the squad week in and week out.

As the game progressed, James could feel the rhythm of the match settle around him. He made several strong runs, linking up well with Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott. By the 60th minute, Arsenal was up 1-0, and James had already had a couple of chances. He knew that it was only a matter of time before another opportunity came his way.

In the 75th minute, the breakthrough came. Jack Wilshere played a brilliant through ball into the box, and James was in perfect position to run onto it. With the goalkeeper charging toward him, James calmly took a touch, then slotted the ball past him with a cool finish.

The crowd erupted as the ball hit the back of the net. 2-0 to Arsenal.

James couldn't help but smile. He had scored again. It wasn't a dramatic solo effort like his first goal, but it was the kind of goal that proved he could be counted on in tight situations. His composure and decision-making were the key to his development, and this goal was a clear sign that he was growing more comfortable at this level.

That evening, after the match, James was flooded with messages from his family. His mum and dad had watched the game on TV, and Lucas couldn't wait to text him after the final whistle.

"Another goal, James! You're on fire! We're so proud of you! Keep it going!" – Mum

"That was awesome, James! You're making us proud. I'm sure this is just the beginning!" – Lucas

James smiled as he read the messages. It meant the world to him to have his family's support, especially in these early days of his first-team journey. He quickly texted them back.

"Thanks, everyone! I'm working hard to keep improving. This is just the start."

Later, after dinner with his family, James couldn't help but reflect on how far he had come. From that first debut match to scoring again in the League Cup, he felt like he was starting to truly carve out his place at Arsenal. But he also knew that the road ahead would be full of challenges. There was still a lot of work to be done.

As the days passed, the media buzz surrounding James' performances continued to grow. He had gone from an unknown youth player to one of the most talked-about young talents in the Premier League.

Pundits like Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher both praised James for his composure and finishing ability after his goal against Manchester City, saying that he had shown the kind of maturity and calmness in front of goal that many experienced strikers lacked.

"James Carter has all the tools to be a top player for Arsenal," Neville said during a match analysis. "His ability to take his chances, like he did against City, is rare for a young player. He has the potential to be a mainstay in this Arsenal team."

Robbie Savage, another pundit, commented on the League Cup performance. "Carter's goal was the mark of a player who's not just looking to fit in, but to stand out. His composure when one-on-one with the goalkeeper was fantastic. This kid's got something special."

The praise from the media only added to the excitement surrounding James' rise. Fans were quick to jump on the bandwagon, with Arsenal supporters sharing their excitement on social media platforms. His name was trending on Twitter, and videos of his goals were being shared widely.

"James Carter, future of Arsenal?" read the headline on the front page of the Arsenal Fan TV blog, with fans commenting on how excited they were to see a young player finally living up to the club's rich legacy of nurturing talent.

Arsenal fans packed social media with messages of support, with many proclaiming him as the future of the club. "This is the kind of player we need!" one fan tweeted. "James Carter will be the next great Arsenal striker!"

In the days following the match, the pressure and expectations started to mount. The media continued to spotlight James, and the fans had high hopes for him. As much as the praise was motivating, James knew that the true challenge lay in maintaining consistency and delivering on a regular basis.

Arsène Wenger continued to provide guidance, pushing James to stay focused and keep improving. "You've made an impact, James. But remember, this is only the beginning. The consistency comes next."

In training, James continued to refine his game. The competition for a starting spot in the first team was fierce, but he was no longer intimidated. He was part of the squad now, and he would prove that he belonged week in and week out.