Arsene Wenger has suggested that he intends to use highly-rated youngster Alex Iwobi in Arsenal’s first team rather than send him out on loan for the remainder of the season.
The Metro claims that the 19-year-old forward, who has made eight appearances for the Gunners this season, might have left the Emirates to get some extra senior experience.
But Wenger has revealed that he is reluctant to loan out Iwobi, because he feels that the versatile Nigerian could very quickly make his breakthrough into the first team.
“I have a hesitation about loaning him out,” Wenger is quoted by the Metro as saying.
“It’s because I think this guy could very quickly play. He can play on the left, he can play on the right, he can play behind the striker, even number nine.
“He’s one who when he was a kid could pass by if you don’t watch well in training but I personally like his game. He’s very interesting.”
Iwobi has made four substitute appearances in the Premier League, but is likely to find further opportunities hard to come by as Arsenal push for a first title in 12 years.
The teenager’s best chance of first-team exposure could be in the cup competitions, but the Gunners may soon be out of the Champions League as they face holders Barcelona in the last 16.
A third successive run to the FA Cup final could be Arsenal’s best chance to blood Iwobi, so, all things considered, a run of games on loan in the Championship might actually be the best option.
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