Loaned-out Arsenal player praised after shining in Premier League victory

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Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has been praised after helping loan club Luton Town beat Sheffield United on Boxing Day.

Luton headed away to Bramall Lane on Boxing Day having beaten Newcastle United 1-0 at Kenilworth Road last weekend.

The Hatters took the lead through Alfie Doughty against Sheffield United, only to see the Blades turn the game on its head and go 2-1 up.

There was another twist in the tale though as two Sheffield United own goals in just four minutes handed Luton a 3-2 victory and a second win in a row.

Rob Edwards and co will have real hope of staying in the Premier League as they start to pick up results, and an Arsenal loanee will be delighted to have played a part…

Albert Sambi Lokonga praised after Arsenal victory

Midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga really needed to shine on loan at Luton this season after a difficult campaign last season.

The Belgian slipped down Arsenal’s pecking order before heading on loan to Crystal Palace.

That spell didn’t help Lokonga’s Arsenal fortunes so he headed off to Luton – and picked up an injury in September, just weeks after arriving.

Lokonga is back now though and started against both Newcastle and Sheffield United, adding the Hatters as they picked up two wins.

The 24-year-old took to Instagram after the Boxing Day defeat, celebrating three points and another 90 minutes in his legs as he looks to reach full fitness.

Lokonga received a response from Luton goalkeeper and fellow Belgian Thomas Kaminski, who called the midfielder’s performance a ‘masterclass’.

Lokonga recorded an assist, two tackles, one clearance, one dribble and three blocked shots in an impressive display, so Kaminski’s praise is warranted.

Arsenal talent Arthur Okonkwo joined Yannick Bolasie in sending supportive messages to Lokonga as he tries to find his best form again.

Whether that will be enough to give him a future at Arsenal remains to be seen, but Lokonga could now make a huge impact for Luton in the second half of the season.