Arsenal forward Wellington Silva is learning the “Dennis Bergkamp” role with parent club Fluminense, after impressing as a substitute in the first two fixtures of the new Brazilian Série A season.

Silva’s stock has risen significantly since he signed for the Gunners and he’s now considered a star in his own right in Brazil. Promoted to the first team after an impressive pre-season, coach Muricy Ramalho is working closely with the precocious prospect. His two substitute appearances so far have yielded a new side to the 17-year-old, a defensive, hard working side.

Fluminense possess an impressive strike force, with Hertha Berlin loanee André Lima and former Lyon hitman Fred the notable names. Flu’s opening game of the campaign was a 1-0 defeat to Ceará, where Wellington was introduced with 10 minutes left. He ran, chased and tracked back well, as well as looking dangerous with possession. Operating just off Lima in a 4-4-2, he looked every bit a deadly number 10.

Yesterday saw their second game of the season. A home fixture with Goianiense, which they won 1-0. Again Silva came off the bench, and again he showed the defensive aspects of the game which impressed everybody. He still needs to tighten up on his positional and tactical play, but Wellington is learning to find a balance between his flamboyant, skillful style, and a defensive and hard working attitude he will need to succeed in Europe.

The future is looking very promising for young Wellington.