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Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has 'no guarantees' of starting regularly whilst on loan at Crystal Palace according to Eagles manager Patrick Vieira.
The Belgian midfielder moved to Selhurst Park on deadline day and will spend the rest of the season on loan at the South London club.
He hasn't featured in Arsenal's side in the Premier League since October and will be hoping to get more minutes whilst at Palace to prove to Arteta that he is valuable to the Gunners.
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Despite this, manager Vieira recently revealed a conversation he had with Arsenal sporting director Edu where he gave 'no guarantees' over Lokonga's place in the starting 11.
As reported by the South London Press, he said: “I spoke with Edu, not with Mikel [Arteta].
“Edu really gave me the picture about the player on the field and off the field.
“We know what kind of player we’re taking and which side of the game he needs to improve. He is a player who will help us.
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“He was looking for a place where he could play, where he would have an opportunity to keep developing himself.
“Of course, coming to us, we have players in that position – nothing is guaranteed.”
Strong competition
Not only did Lokonga face strong competition for places at Arsenal but he also does at Palace.
He's made 25 Premier League appearances in total so far and at 23 years old has a long career ahead of him, but his loan move to potentially represents a make or break few months.
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If he can't hold down a regular place in the Eagles' squad then is he really good enough to play for Arsenal who are fighting at the top of the table?
He has been included on Palace's bench for their clash with Manchester United on Saturday so could make his debut.
Topics: Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Patrick Vieira, Mikel Arteta, Premier League, Transfers
Will Evans