Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has raved about the impact of striker Alexandre Lacazette against Crystal Palace on Monday.
The Gunners needed a last-gasp equaliser from Lacazette to save a point against Crystal Palace.
Palace were 2-1 up with just seconds to play, but substitute Lacazette came on to smash home a late leveller.
Lokonga praises Lacazette
Lacazette was Arsenal’s second substitution against Palace, as midfielder Lokonga came on for Bukayo Saka at the break.
Lokonga was party to blame for Palace’s second goal, losing the ball in a dangerous area before Odsonne Edouard scored.
The midfielder has now admitted to BBC Sport that Lacazette brought the ‘fire’ that substitutes need to supply.
Lokonga is seemingly inspired by Lacazette’s cameo, hoping to take it forward into his future Arsenal displays.
“I think Lacazette did well today,” said Lokonga. “He backed me, he backed the team. I think when we come on we have to bring this mentality that Lacazette did. I think he brought fire when he came on and that’s what we need to try to do every time somebody comes on,” he added.
Lacazette’s Arsenal exit drawing closer
It’s clear that Lacazette is still popular in the Arsenal squad, but his time with the club looks to be coming towards its end.
The striker is out of contract at the end of the season and doesn’t look likely to land an extension.
Jeunes Footeux even claim that Everton and West Ham United are chasing Lacazette’s signature ahead of January.
Arsenal would surely miss Lacazette’s fire, experience and goal threat, and Lokonga may well have to play against him in the near future.
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