Ian Wright while speaking about Lokonga’s performance during the FA Cup tie, said he needs more game time because he asked ability to sense danger
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former Arsenal striker, Ian Wright has criticised Belgium international, Albert Sambi Lokonga following his below-par performance in the Gunners’ FA Cup 1-0 loss to league champions, Manchester City on Friday night.
The league leaders, Arsenal got dumped out of the cup competition at Etihad Stadium, thanks to a 64th minute goal by Citizens’ defender, Nathan Ake.
Lokonga after the break replaced Ghanaian midfielder, Thomas Partey, who started the match but injured his ribs during the encounter and could no longer continue.
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Speaking on ITV Sport after the match, Wright said: “But look at the amount of space [Alvarez] is in. Someone has got to be there, whether it is Vieira or it is Lokonga. Someone has got to be closer. Too much space.”
Still focusing on Lokonga, the Arsenal legend said he needs more playing time, as it was evident that he could not sense danger.
“With someone like Sambi, he needs minutes, he needs to be playing, he needs to be able to understand and be more wary of where he’s and what he needs to do and where he needs to be dropping in.
“You have got to kind of sense that danger, and that is why he needs the minutes in games of this quality because that is where you learn.” Ian Wright added.