Arsenal boss running the rule over Nigerian-born midfielder ahead of Carabao Cup tie vs The Dons

Published: September 17, 2021

Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has observed Tim Akinola at close quarters several times this month ahead of his possible inclusion in the matchday squad for their Carabao Cup clash against AFC Wimbledon if he makes the grade.

It is confirmed that the Spanish football tactician ran the rule over the Nigerian-born midfielder during Thursday's first team training session at London Colney.

Bringing Akinola to train with the first team this week shows he is highly regarded by the coaching staff and he wasn't promoted to first team training during the international break this month just to make up the numbers.

Since his move from Huddersfield Town last summer, the 2001-born defensive midfielder has been playing for Arsenal's development squad, for whom he has made 27 appearances in all competitions and logged 1,996 minutes.

Akinola knows something or two about Arsenal's next opponents, AFC Wimbledon, having faced their first team in the Carabao Cup nine months ago.

He helped Arsenal U21s pick up wins against Football League teams Ipswich Town, Crawley Town and Gillingham FC last season.

Akinola's current deal will expire at the end of the 2021-2022 campaign with Arsenal holding a two-year option to extend the agreement.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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