3 reasons why Albert Sambi Lokonga did not work out at Arsenal

2. Lack of defensive awareness

From his obsession with backline purchases to the incredible work ethic instilled in every first-team player, it is clear that Arteta values the defensive workload highly and Lokonga fell woefully short of the mark.

His faults are evident at several turns, including a poor positional sense which stops him making interceptions and a regular failure to check his shoulder upon getting possession. Meanwhile, tepid efforts to track back and snuff out attacks were a feature of his time at Luton and will not/cannot be tolerated at a title-challenging level.

Maybe there are ways around it, such as putting a workhorse next to him or using our well-drilled structure to limit his defensive responsibilities and allow his ball-playing skills to shine. Yet, once again, a team reaching for the stars can ill-afford the burden of carrying passengers and Arsenal must instead cut their losses.

You cannot last here without good work rate.    

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