Joel Campbell (Sporting Lisbon)
Joel Campbell – the unjustly mistreated winger – has never been given a fair chance at Arsenal. The Costa Rican who signed from Deportivo Saprissa in 2011 is now on his fifth loan spell with Sporting GB, having previously played in France, Spain and Greece.
The 24 year-old returned to Arsenal in 2014 following a successful loan spell with Olympicaos, which included a goal against Manchester United in the Champions League. He was then lauded for his impressive showings during the World Cup, scoring Costa Rica’s first goal of the tournament.
This lead many to believe that the loan spells were over and that he would finally be given a chance at the club. This was not the case and was eventually loaned out to Villarreal in January, with Gabriel coming in.
It seemed the only shot he had at the first-team was at the event of an injury crisis. Last season was his shot, with both Theo Walcott AND Oxlade-Chamberlain sidelined from November onward. It’s safe to say Campbell seized his opportunity well.
His impressive performances were accompanied with 3 league goals in their absence. His work-rate and vision were a particular strength which adhered many to his talent. So much so, that it came with so much frustration as to why the manager favoured the inconsistent English duo ahead of Campbell.
It begs the question, does Campbell have a future at Arsenal?
It was quite telling to know that Campbell himself requested a season loan. He is clearly a talented player, which is why this new loan spell was criticised by the fans. But another lacklustre season from Walcott and the Ox could possibly earn Campbell another shot at the first-team next year.