A FORMER Colfe’s student did his old school proud last week when he made his debut for Arsenal in the FA Cup.

Conor Henderson was handed a first start by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger in last Wednesday’s FA Cup replay with Leyton Orient and played a key role as the Premiership side brushed aside the League One outfit 5-0 at the Emirates.

The 19-year-old midfielder clearly impressed Wenger as he played the full 90 minutes and Colfe’s head Richard Russell was also full of praise for the Sidcup youngster who only left the Lee school in 2008.

Mr Russell said: “We were delighted to hear that Conor had made his debut for the Arsenal first team last week.

“Conor was a highly successful pupil throughout his time at Colfe's.

“He was a key player in the first XI from a very early age and played a crucial role in the 2008 season when Colfe's won the Bromley Schools' Cup at The Valley and defeated City of London School in the final of the London Independent Schools Cup.

“Conor left Colfe's the following July to pursue a career in professional football with Arsenal after achieving excellent grades at GCSE.

“We were delighted to see him make the first team last week and look forward to hearing of his future success.

“His achievement is a fantastic tribute not only to Colfe's, but also to independent school sport.”

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