Report: Arteta calls 20-year-old up to Arsenal first-team training, he’s got real ‘attacking flair’

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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has reportedly called midfielder James Olayinka up to Gunners first-team training this week.

With the international break in full swing, many senior players are playing for their countries, and at Arsenal it’s no exception.

First-team club managers will usually call up Under-23s players to take part in their training sessions during the break.

This isn’t just a case of making up the numbers – it’s a great opportunity for head coaches and youth players alike.

Managers can take a look at some of the top Under-23s in their ranks, who in turn will hope to stake a senior squad claim.

And according to All Nigeria Soccer, Arteta called Olayinka up on Monday in preparation for the Premier League meeting with Norwich.

The 20-year-old came through the ranks at Hale End and signed his first professional contract in January 2019.

Olayinka made 21 appearances in all competitions on loan at Southend United last season, scoring three goals.

“James has got attacking flair and he showed that,” former manager Mark Molesley told Echo News last season.

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

Although the Gunners gem wanted another loan spell this season, he had no suitors as he had just recovered from an injury, according to the report.