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Following the latest injury reports surrounding Arsenal, Albert Sambi Lokonga might be afforded a chance to play regularly under Mikel Arteta.
THE LOWDOWN: NEW SEASON, NEW ARSENAL
Arsenal have started the season differently, winning the first four Premier League games of the season. The latest of those wins was the comeback 2-1 win over Fulham at the Emirates last Saturday.
There have been considerable changes in results and personnel for Mikel Arteta’s side as this is the first time that the club will win all four opening games of the new season, since the 2004/2005 campaign. At this stage last season, Arsenal were hovering around the relegation zone but managed to return to Europe at the end of the campaign.
However, it is a breath of fresh air at the Emirates, but it seems things are beginning to get out of the window.
THE LATEST: INJURY CRISIS
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, defensive midfielder Mohamed Elneny, who was in action last weekend against Fulham, is reportedly set for a ‘considerable spell’ on the sidelines after picking up a ‘significant injury’.
In that same report, Ornstein claims that the Egyptian midfielder is facing a prolonged period on the treatment table.
This latest injury will serve as a major blow to Mikel Arteta, following Thomas Partey’s initial absence. However, with Partey also suffering from a muscle issue, Elneny’s latest injury could not have come at a worse time.
When it comes to potential stand-ins, Arteta has young midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga at his disposal, as well as Granit Xhaka, and Oleksandr Zinchenko is another viable option.
THE VERDICT: WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
Albert Sambi Lokonga joined Arsenal from Anderlecht on a long-term contract last summer, but he has been given little or no playing time. Although he started a few games in the early stages of last season, he was relegated to the bench at the turn of the year.
With both Elneny and Partey, who are ahead of him out of the picture, it could be his moment to shine. Although he has made cameo appearances – three minutes in total – this season, it is about time he got his chance and feel a sense of belonging and not just a squad player.
If and when he gets the chance in the coming games, Lokonga will be responsible for whatever the outcome is but he can take a cue from the emergence of William Saliba and secure his place in the team.
