Official : Arsenal loan out third Nigerian goalkeeper in 2023

Through their official website, English Premier League club Arsenal have confirmed that Brian Okonkwo has joined non-leaguers Hitchin Town. 

The Hale End Academy product has joined the Southern League Premier Division Central club on a one-match release loan and is set to return to the Emirates Stadium next week.

Brian Okonkwo is the third Nigerian goalkeeper loaned out by the Gunners in 2023, following in the footsteps of his elder brother Arthur Okonkwo and 2023 Flying Eagles invitee Ovie Ejeheri. 

Okonkwo joined Austrian Bundesliga club Sturm Graz on January 16 and three days later, Ejeheri completed his move to Finnish top division outfit SJK Seinajoki.

Hitchin Town manager Mark Burke desperately needed to sign a replacement goalkeeper after Charlie Horlock was sent off for receiving two yellow cards.

The  6 feet 4 inches tall Brian Okonkwo is expected to be in goal for the Canaries on Saturday as they face Nuneaton Borough in the league.

A first year scholar, Okonkwo has been at Arsenal from when he was ten years old. 

The 17-year-old made his U18 Premier League debut against Norwich City last month and has also received call-ups for matches in the FA Youth Cup and U18 Premier League Cup. 

ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit : arsenal.com 

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