Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga delivered a quality performance for Luton Town during their 4-4 Premier League draw against Newcastle United on Saturday.
The Belgian joined the Hatters on a season-long loan last summer, but he had a frustrating start. The 24-year-old spent two months on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
Since his comeback, he has been a mainstay in their starting XI. Against the Magpies, the midfielder had a relatively good outing, completing 93 per cent of his passes.
Lokonga won an impressive 11 out of his 15 duels contested. He also won five tackles alongside two clearances, two interceptions and blocked two shots on goal.
The former Anderlecht graduate lost possession on just six occasions and it was definitely one of his best performances of the campaign for Robert Edwards’ side.
Lokonga could have a future at Arsenal
The Belgian was loaned out last summer after he fell behind Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, Thomas Partey, Jorginho and Emile Smith Rowe in the pecking order for a midfield position.
However, he could be handed a fresh chance to prove himself if he continues to impress at Luton.
Lokonga still needs to improve on his recovery pace, but he has been playing with confidence behind him lately, having received the backing from Edwards.
In a recent interview with DH, the midfielder said that he does not regret joining Arsenal and still believes he has a future at the club once he returns from Luton.
With the possibility of Jorginho, Partey and Mohamed Elneny leaving this summer, there could be a place for Lokonga in the squad if he is prepared to accept a limited role.
We definitely don’t see him as a regular starter for the Gunners, but he could be a quality option off the bench to provide the additional defensive assurance.
Stats from Sofascore.com
