Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger believes that Joel Campbell could be ready to step up into the Gunners first team after his eye catching display against Manchester United for Olympiakos.
The 21 year old netted the Greek side’s second goal as they beat David Moyes men 2-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The Frenchman admits that he has not made a decision about Campbell’s future, but described the forward as having something special.
Speaking to Arsenal’s official website, he said:
I will decide that later. Why not? We bought him to bring him here.
He was good, convincing going forward [against Man United]. He looks like he has adapted a bit better to the physical side of the European game.
We always knew that he had the talent to create something special. He did rely a bit too much on that.
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But he’s now been out with three different clubs, he was with Lorient, Real Betis and now Olympiacos. He has learned the toughness of the European leagues.
The Costa Rican striker was a surprise signing by Wenger in August 2011, but strangely his talent wasn’t enough to get the work permit. He has had to start his Arsenal career with three loan moves at Lorient, Real Betis and now in Greece with Olympiakos where he has finally started to blossom.
He is shaping up to be an exciting prospect ahead of next season, as he continued his good form for Olympiakos with a stunning finish against United taking his tally to 7 goals and 11 assists in his 23 games.
He is very quick which allows him to terrorise most full backs and has the skill and confidence to beat his man. His greatest asset is his versatility and although he began his career as a centre-forward, much of his club football has been played on the right wing. He has a wonderful left foot and playing on the right allows him to cut in and strike at goal.
The youngster has 30 appearances for his national team and he is very keen to return to the Emirates for next season. Hopefully he can continue this impressive form and make the first team next season, as he does look like a great prospect for the future.
Can he make the step up next season? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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