Legendary Arsenal center back Martin Keown has heaped praise on Folarin Balogun by comparing him to former Manchester United striker Andy Cole and Gunners hero Ian Wright.

The Hale End Academy graduate played the last twenty eight minutes as Arsenal extended their one hundred percent record in the Europa League with a 4-2 thrashing of Dundalk in Dublin on Thursday evening.

Balogun has looked a real threat in his four appearances for Arsenal in the Europa League and was singled out for praise by Keown after scoring and providing an assist against the Irish opponents.

"I’m looking at him thinking, ‘remember the name’ tonight, really, because of the way he linked up, some great turns," Keown said on BT Sport.

"You try and compare - is it Andy Cole or is it Ian Wright? There’s that sort of movement about him.

"I know they’re big name players and if he can live up to that he’s going to have some career.

"But I just like the way he’s always looking on the shoulder, his movement, creating space.

"I was really impressed. The way he scores the goal, the way he comes onto it, he’s pointing, give me it.

"He steps onto it, this is me, this is my moment, I belong here. I like that. He’s had to wait for his opportunity, he’s 19 years of age and already showing good signs."

Balogun was voted Arsenal's Man of the Match ahead of Mohamed Elneny, Emile Smith-Rowe and Edward Nketiah after starring against Dundalk.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : arsenal.com