Arsenal fans have reacted to Albert Sambi Lokonga’s claims that his favourite position to play is as a ‘number eight’, so he can ‘attack’ and then ‘defend with freedom’, as quoted by the Metro.
The 21-year-old was signed by Arsenal this summer from Belgian side Anderlecht, who have been known to bring through top-quality midfield technical talents, for example, Leicester City’s, Youri Tielemans.
Perhaps playing that more defensive role is what Arsenal fans expected him to do, and he has and might continue to do.
But it seems as though the 21-year-old prefers the more attacking side to the game, which does add more bite to Arsenal’s midfield
“I like to be No. 8 so I can attack and I can defend with more freedom,” said Lokonga.
“That’s what I like. But I also like [playing as] six so it’s difficult. I like both but the most important thing for me is to be on the pitch.”
Arsenal fans have provided a mixed reaction to Lokonga’s comments, with some questioning how they are going to set up in midfield, for the long run.
Thomas Partey has returned from injury, added with Granit Xhaka to return from suspension, then there is the more attack-minded players in Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe.
Arteta has a lot to play with and he can now tweak that system to be more offensive or defensive.
But some Arsenal fans have suggested that it shows they need a bonafide defensive player in their team, and that’s where a previously linked target, Yves Bissouma, gets a mention.
One thing is for sure, Arsenal’s midfield options are looking a lot better than what Arteta had to choose from when he first walked through the doors.
It’s now all about being patient with what they have because if Partey and Lokonga now explode then it will seriously take the team to another level.
Here is a selection of Arsenal fans reacting to Lokonga’s claims:
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