Olayinka targets another win v Chelsea U21, hails Brazilian wonderkid Marquinhos

Nigerian midfielder James Olayinka has had a fine start to the new Premier League 2 season, helping the Gunners register back-to-back wins against Manchester United and West Ham United.

The Hale End Academy product impressed as Arsenal came back from a goal down to beat the Hammers 3-2 on Friday, providing the assist for the team's equaliser in the 15th minute before getting on the scoresheet in the 58th minute.

Much was expected of Olayinka after he was included by erstwhile manager Unai Emery in the tour to the United States of America ahead of the 2019-2020 season but his progress has been hampered by injuries in recent seasons.

However, his injury woes are now a thing of the past given his form in the start of the 2022-2023 season.

Olayinka is confident that Arsenal will maintain their one hundred percent record when they face off with Chelsea U21s in their next Premier League 2 outing on Saturday, August 20.

Speaking to Arsenal's official website after the clash against West Ham, Olayinka stated :"We have Chelsea next week so that's another big game.

"We have some players who have not played who will be fit for that game, and I'm sure we'll get another good result if we work hard."

Olayinka had nothing but praise for Marquinhos, admitting that the teenage Brazilian sensation has an influence on the team, especially the younger players, and highlighted that he's a creative player.

"A big influence. Two games and he's got three goals and some assists already. He's come down from the first team.

"His attitude has been great and he's helping the younger ones. The rest of us, older ones in the team, we are here to help the younger players and he's been brilliant when he's played and hopefully it continues as long he plays with us."

Olayinka is expected to leave Arsenal on loan or on a permanent basis before the close of the summer transfer window.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com