Akpom: My aim for the season ahead, why I feel prepared to play for Arsenal

Arsenal centre forwardChuba Akpom has revealed that he is looking to make the ambitious step-up to first-team football in the Premier League.

The 20-year-old spent last season on loan at Hull City in the Championship and proved himself to be a useful addition, scoring seven goals, only for the good form of Abel Hernandez to see his game time severely limited.

With the likes of Danny Welbeck and Olivier Giroud set to miss the start of the season, the responsibility of starting up front against Liverpool on August 14th could fall to young Akpom if he impresses during pre-season.

Speaking to Squawka, the England under-21 international has revealed that it’s a responsibility he is willing to take on and is willing to play where required by Arsene Wenger.

“The aim for this season is to get as much game time for Arsenal as I can and hopefully have an impact on the first team. I’ve gone on loan, gained a lot of experience and I have come back more prepared, so hopefully I’ll get as much minutes for Arsenal.

“As a young player you have to be patient to get your opportunity. The boss knows what he’s doing all the time, he knows when to put you in at the right time, so you just have to be ready and prepared and keep mentally focused.

“I’ve gone on loan and I think that’s benefited me. It’s all helped me because now I’ve matured as a player and hopefully this season can be a big season for me and Arsenal.”

Akpom’s game time will likely be based on whether Arsenal sign a striker this summer – with it well-reported that they have had a bid turned down for Alexandre Lacazette.