Arsenal vs Hibernian: 3 fairly meaningless pre-season talking points

3. All Aboard the Folarin Balogun Hype Train

Is it ‘fairly meaningless’ that we’re after? Then how about giving a judgement of a player after 45 minutes against the side that finished third in the Scottish Premiership last season?

Let’s give it a crack.

Balogun has many qualities to admire and despite the small sample sizes – at least in first team football – all the signs are Arsenal have a really strong talent on their hands.

It’s how he holds the ball up which is really impressive. Still only 19 years of age, he has excellent strength in the duels and can shrug off defenders relatively effortlessly, showing the composure to then lay the ball off and run into space.

Those sequences are very important since generally with Lacazette he does the former effectively but is hesitant to make the important next step. That movement and control is still raw but to have that as an option up front next season should anything happen to Lacazette is more than useful.

There is obviously still a long way for him to go in his development but his composure is worth mentioning. He isn’t afraid to take a shot off either, always seeking shooting opportunities despite those he’s playing alongside, and that confidence will serve him well on the occasions he he gets a chance.