'I Always Try To Stay Ready' - Balogun Reacts After First Senior Goal For Arsenal

Published: November 26, 2020

Folarin Balogun impressed in his second appearance off the bench for Arsenal's first team, scoring their final goal in a convincing 3-0 win over Molde at the Aker Stadium on Thursday evening.

The talented youngster made the game safe when he fired past goalkeeper Andreas Linde from inside the box in the 83rd minute, assisted by fellow substitute Emile Smith-Rowe.

It was his second touch for the Gunners just thirty seven seconds after replacing Edward Nketiah.

"I’m feeling really happy, it shows that all the hard work I’ve put in over the years is just starting to pay off," Balogun told Arsenal.com.

"It’s important that I keep working hard to enjoy more moments like this.

"I didn’t think that particular [break for the goal] was going to be my chance, but I always try to stay ready and I’m happy that on this occasion it paid off."

Manager Mikel Arteta has opted to give playing opportunities to Balogun despite his well-publicized contract standoff with the Emirates Stadium outfit.

The England U20 international has thanked the Spanish football tactician for having faith in him.

"It’s been good [to be involved], it’s nice to see the boss showing faith in me.

"It feels like this is good experience for me, I just need to keep on learning, keep on adding to my game and I’m happy that I could contribute today."

Balogun played the last sixteen minutes on his professional debut against Irish club Dundalk exactly four weeks ago.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : arsenal.com

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