‘Attacking flair’: Manager wowed by Arsenal loanee who can play in a range of positions

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Arsenal loanee James Olayinka has been praised by Southend boss Mark Molesley after the Gunners midfielder returned to action following an ankle injury.

The 20-year-old left the Emirates Stadium in October to link up with the League Two side initially until January, though this was extended to the end of the season.

Olayinka has made 17 appearances for Southend, scoring three goals, but had been out of action since mid-January, when he suffered ankle ligament damage in the Grimsby stalemate.

Despite being sidelined, he made such an impact that the club looked to keep him on until the end of the campaign, and his stint was extended at the start of February.

Olayinka came on for the final 17 minutes of Tuesday night’s 0-0 draw with Walsall at Roots Hall, and Molesley was delighted to have him back.

“James has got attacking flair and he showed that,” Molesley told the Echo News.

“It’s another attacking player to add to our armoury and he can play in a range of positions.

“There’s competition for places and it’s difficult because they’re all fighting.

“The pressure is on and you need to come on and produce it now because there are other people waiting.”

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It’s not been a good season for Southend, who have battled relegation for much of the campaign and are still six points adrift of safety.

However, Olayinka has been bright when called upon and has shown progress this term, so he could potentially be in line for a loan higher up in the Football League next season.