Arsenal loanee Olayinka to make long-awaited return next week, winger switches agents

Published: March 13, 2021

Arsenal-owned winger James Olayinka will not be available for selection when Southend United face Stevenage in a League Two encounter at Roots Hall on Saturday afternoon.

Although the Anglo-Nigerian has returned to training, the game against The Boro has come too soon for him.

Olayinka has not kicked a ball in a competitive fixture since sustaining a grade two ligament damage on his ankle during the goalless draw at Grimsby Town on January 16.

He is expected to be involved in a behind-closed-doors friendly next week after close to two months of being inactive.

Providing a fitness update on the Hale End Academy product, Southend United wrote on their official website : "James Olayinka is closing in on a return after a combination of groin and ankle injuries have kept him sidelined.

"The winger won’t be available this weekend, though he is expected to appear in a behind-closed-doors game next week to help build his fitness after a prolonged period out."

Meanwhile, Olayinka has switched agents ahead of the reopening of the transfer window.

The 20-year-old ended his association with Stellar Group before signing a representation agreement with ARETé Limited, who also look after Arsenal's Nigerian duo Joseph Olowu and Arthur Okonkwo.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : southendunited.co.uk

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