Arsenal midfielder reveals James Maddison's impact at Aberdeen inspired him to join Dundee Utd

Published: February 01, 2022

Nigerian-born starlet Tim Akinola has expressed his happiness after completing a deadline day move to Scottish Premiership outfit Dundee United.

Arsenal have farmed out the promising midfielder to Dundee United for the remainder of the season in order to get a taste of first team football.

And the deal was completed in time for him to be available for selection for Tuesday night's derby against Dundee at Kilmac Stadium at Dens Park.

The Anglo-Nigerian, under the guidance of manager Tam Courts, has already trained with his teammates ahead of a possible senior debut against the Dark Blues.

Akinola has admitted that James Maddison's impact during a loan spell at Aberdeen in the first half of 2016-2017 inspired his move to the Scottish Premiership.

Speaking to Dundee United TV via The Courier, Akinola said : "I’m not that familiar with the Scottish Premiership. But I know in recent years it has been ‘bigged-up’ more.

"There are players like James Maddison who have done well. Now look at what he is doing at Leicester City. There are opportunities here."

Former Huddersfield and Lincoln City youth teamer Akinola has yet to make his first team debut for the Gunners but has been invited to train with the senior squad several times this season.

Igho Kingsley

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