Teenage Nigerian Midfielder Returns To Arsenal Squad For Friendly Vs Angers SCO

Published: July 31, 2019

James Olayinka is the only Nigerian player in contention to feature for Arsenal in their penultimate pre-season friendly before the start of the 2019-2020 campaign.

The 18-year-old was part of the 20-man traveling party to France for Wednesday evening's friendly against Ligue 1 team Angers SCO at Stade Raymond Kopa.

Bukayo Saka and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo have not been called up by Unai Emery while Alex Iwobi has not yet reported for duty because of his involvement with the Super Eagles at the Africa Cup of Nations.

It is looking likely that Olayinka will make his professional debut for the Gunners in the new season as he has been training with the first team throughout pre-season.

The central midfielder will be useful to manager Unai Emery in Europa League and League Cup matches in the upcoming season as Arsenal are not expected to field their strongest possible team in both competitions.

The North London club face Barcelona in their last pre-season game on Sunday, August 4, before they take on Newcastle United in their Premier League opener.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : arsenal.com