Patrick Vieira outlines what Arsenal loanee Lokonga will bring to Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira has outlined what he expects Arsenal loanee Albert Sambi Lokonga to bring to his side.
The Eagles swooped on deadline day to bring the Belgian midfielder to Selhurst Park for the rest of the season on loan.
Lokonga has made 15 appearances this season in all competitions under Mikel Arteta.
But the 23-year-old has been kept out of the side in the Premier League since the 3-1 over Spurs in October.
Lokonga has made 39 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal since signing from Anderlecht in a deal worth around the £17million mark.
The South London Press understands the Gunners allowed Lokonga to leave the Emirates after signing Chelsea midfielder Jorghino.
The midfielder is a part of the squad playing Manchester United tomorrow.
“When you’re talking about the experience, Lokonga knows the Premier League,” said Vieira.
“He has got the technical ability to play well and to improve our play.
“I still believe that there is more to come from him, because he is capable of running in behind and getting involved in the opposition box. His mobility and strength will help us.
“What is important is for him to get more involved and play more games. We will give him that opportunity.
“He will have to work hard to deserve to get that space. But he believes that this was the right decision for the next step for his career, and we will work with him and improve him as we did with a couple of other players we had on loan.”
PICTURE: CPFC
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