“I Was Very Rusty” – Despite Aiding Ryan Reynolds’ Team Win, Newest 6’6 Addition Dissatisfied Over Wrexham Debut

After a record-breaking last season, much was expected from Wrexham from their League 2 return. Unfortunately, Phil Parkinson and his men have failed to live up to their expectations. From lackluster on-field performances to injuries and transfer window troubles; things have not been sunny for the Welsh side. However, they seem to be picking steam up with them coming back to winning ways with a 1-0 victory in their Football League Trophy opener. The key standout of the match, however, was their latest signing and his elite mentality.

On deadline day, the Red Dragons signed goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo from Arsenal on a season-long loan. Okonkwo made his debut last night against Newcastle United under 21 with an impressive performance. Despite the clean sheet, what impressed fans more was his post-match self-analysis.

Arthur Okonkwo is unhappy with his performance despite keeping a clean sheet

The hallmark of champions is their elite mentality. This mentality more often than not pushes them further since they are never satisfied with their performance. Post the Football League Trophy opener, Arthur Okonkwo went to the press and expressed his dissatisfaction with his performance. As per the goalie, since it was his first match, he was rusty and hence wasn’t at his optimal physical agility.

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“I was very rusty, I haven’t played for a few months,” said the goalkeeper. Arthur, however, also acknowledged the positivity of a clean sheet despite the performance not being up to his standards. “Obviously that is part of football but it was really important that I played against Newcastle to get used to the team and how they play as well. I am happy with a clean sheet but I wasn’t happy with my performance,” revealed the youngster.

Having been signed as a last-minute replacement for the retired Ben Foster, Arthur undoubtedly faces the daunting task of filling some big shoes. However, considering his age and the competition, the burning question remains; Can Arthur secure a starting position within a year?

Is Arthur the next starting goalkeeper for Wrexham?

Ever since the Red Dragons fans heard Arsenal’s highly rated Arthur was being signed as Ben Foster’s replacement, the Welsh club’s fans have been super excited. The excitement only grew as Arthur added to their trust with a stellar clean sheet against Newcastle United u21. Hence, fans now want Okonkwo above Rob Lainton, Luke McNicholas, and Liam Hall in the pecking order.

Quipped about competing against three other goalies for the starter position, Arthur gave a composed reply. The talented youngster maturely replied that his competition was himself. He also added that he just wants to learn and help his team to the fullest. “There is a lot of competition. It is just about me focussing on myself and trying my best to get in the team, and do my best for the team,” said the goalie. “I just want to be involved and help the team as much as I can.”

Arthur’s comments are truly encouraging signs for Wrexham. What are your predictions for the talented goalie from London this season? Let us know in the comments section below!

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