BALOGUN GUNNING FOR NEXT STEP
FOLARIN BALOGUN has triggered a scramble for his services after admitting he could quit Arsenal to get first-team football. The striker grabbed his first England Under-21 goal on Thursday against Czech Republic, and wants senior games to boost his career and flag up his potential as a loan signing. He was watched by West Ham manager David Moyes and new Middlesbrough boss Chris Wilder this week. Balogun has been prolific for Arsenal’s U23 and youth sides, and has made four appearances for the senior side this season.
But Balogun said: “I am ready for a new challenge.
“At the same time I am not sure what that challenge might be.
“It might be a loan, or if I am needed at Arsenal I am here.
“As a striker and as a young player you need minutes. It is the best way to learn and get consistency.” The New York-born 20-yearold has spoken to England and Arsenal youngsters Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka for advice on making the next step, and they have urged patience.
Balogun, who has Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah ahead of him in the Gunners’ strike force, added: “It is funny because this time last year Emile was playing U23 football, so it shows how quickly things can change.
“I speak to Emile and Bukayo a lot. They tell me it is not an overnight thing, which it hasn’t been for them. It would be naive for me to think that. You just have to keep practising.”
Asked if Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has a plan for him, Balogun added: “I have complete faith in the gaffer and I feel like, whatever the plan is, I’ll give 100 percent and it will work out as it has done the rest of my career.”
England U21 head coach Lee Carsley said: “Players need opportunities. He has outgrown the U23s and needs testing at senior level.”