Arsenal midfielder confirmed as the latest summer transfer window signing for League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers
Sligo Rovers have been busy so far this summer with new arrivals at the Showgrounds.
Sligo Rovers have confirmed the signing of Ireland underage prospect Jack Henry-Francis from Arsenal on loan until the end of the season. The 20-year-old midfielder is considered a top prospect at the Gunners and has trained regularly with the first-team squad under Mikel Arteta.
A former Fulham academy player, he joined Arsenal in 2016, while he qualifies for Ireland through family ties in Mayo and Leitrim. Henry-Francis said: “I’m looking to get some exposure to first-team football really and when I get the chance, I want to put in some really good performances.
“I think I can do that here. I’ve spoken a lot to John and about his plans for me and the squad for the rest of the year and it’s been very exciting. I know a fair bit about the league and have watched a fair bit of it since I knew I’d be moving over.
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“There seems to be a lot of togetherness in the team and a lot of fight along with some really good technical players.”
As for training with the first-team at Arsenal, he added: “It’s always a great experience being with Arsenal’s first-team as it’s always intense as there are a lot of demands, but I feel that will stand to me at Rovers.”
When he was 17 he was part of a first-team pre-season training camp in Scotland.
He said: “The trip to Scotland was incredible as you were playing alongside players with lots of Premier League and international experience.
“The last few years, the level I’ve trained at has really made me play up a level as you’re training with players who are chasing Premier League titles.”
Bit O’ Red boss John Russell hailed his latest arrival, saying: “I am delighted to bring Jack to the Showgrounds.
“He is a tenacious midfielder who plays the game with real energy and aggression.
“It’s important now that we continue to add real quality to the group and Jack fits that profile.
“We are all excited to get to work with him and I know he’s looking forward to making an impact between now and the end of the season.”
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