Mikel Arteta delivers verdict on Albert Sambi Lokonga, as Arsenal face Watford

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Mikel Arteta has told his press conference that Arsenal summer signing Albert Sambi Lokonga is showing intelligence and courage.

Lokonga, 22, has made a solid start to life in the Premier League. With Granit Xhaka potentially sidelined until the new year, Lokonga is vital.

The Belgium international has clocked up 11 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions so far – starting six of his side’s 10 Premier League matches.

Arsenal face Watford on Sunday afternoon and Lokonga is expected to start alongside Thomas Partey. He is starting to prove his £18million fee (Goal).

Arteta spoke in his press conference on Friday morning about numerous talking points – including the improving form of Lokonga at Arsenal.

“Sambi has shown a really quick adaptation, a lot of intelligence and courage. He’s constantly trying to affect the game in the right way.”

Arteta on Lokonga: When Xhaka returns, does he start for Arsenal?

Right now, and especially after the last two results, you would expect that Lokonga is now first choice alongside Ghana international Partey.

Both are forming a blossoming partnership. At the beginning of Arsenal’s seven game unbeaten run in the Premier League, Xhaka was excellent.

But his injury has allowed Lokonga to come in and with Xhaka almost leaving in the summer, he will surely drop to the bench for Lokonga.

If Lokonga continues to show the form has has shown in recent weeks when Xhaka is fit, he will start alongside Partey.