Albert Sambi Lokonga has admitted to Arsenal’s official website that he finds the speed and intensity of the Premier League ‘crazy’.
Adjustment period needed
Arsenal signed Lokonga from Anderlecht this summer, after spotting his potential in Belgium’s top flight.
The young midfielder has generally impressed during his initial few months in English football.
But the Arsenal new boy admits that there has been a bit of a transition period for him.
He said: “I think the intensity here is crazy. When the other team go on the counter you need to sprint.
“In Belgium, I was not used to that! That’s the big difference.”
Big chance coming?
Lokonga may well have to be fast-tracked into Arsenal’s first-team, despite his comments which suggest he is still adjusting.
Granit Xhaka’s injury means that there is a space in Arsenal’s midfield which has opened up.
Lokonga looks a viable candidate to fill it for Mikel Arteta’s side, and the pressure will be on him to step up.
Arsenal have started to show signs of promise over recent weeks, after going their last four games unbeaten.
The Gunners return to action after the international break, when they are due to face Crystal Palace on Monday evening.
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