PL 2 : Nigerian-born CM makes comeback from injury as Arsenal record second consecutive win

Arsenal development squad recorded their second win in as many games with a 3-2 victory against West Ham United in a Premier League 2 clash staged at Rush Green Stadium on Friday evening.

The big news was that Nigerian-born midfielder Tim Akinola made his comeback from injury, coming off the bench to replace James Olayinka with two minutes left on the clock.

Nigeria-eligible youngsters Olayinka, Zach Awe and Miguel Azeez were once again named in the Gunners' starting lineup just as was the case in the opening day win vs Manchester United.

Hammers U21s head coach Mark Robson handed a start to Irish-Nigerian striker Mipo Odubeko.

For the second straight game, the Gunners conceded an early goal as Kamarai Swyer curled home in the 13th minute but the Gunners replied almost immediately as Marquinhos headed home at the back post assisted by Olayinka.

Another header from the Brazilian made it 2-1 at minute 44, Olayinka finished at the near post to extend the lead and Odubeko pulled one back in the 58th minute.

With victory all but secured, Arsenal coach Mehmet Ali brought on Akinola, his first competitive appearance since suffering a serious ankle injury during a loan spell at Dundee United in the second half of last season.

Allnigeriasoccer.com reported seventeen days ago that Akinola was nearing a return to full fitness and traveled with the U21s to Scotland as part of their pre-season preparations.

The 21-year-old is now tied to Arsenal until June 30, 2024 after the club decided to trigger a two-year extension clause in his previous contract.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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