Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has confirmed that Arthur Okonkwo will remain on loan at the Racecourse Ground until the end of the season.
Despite starting the campaign on the bench, and breaking his jaw in December, the goalkeeper, 22, has impressed for the Red Dragons keeping 10 clean sheets in 20 appearances.
This time last year, Okonkwo’s performances for Crewe Alexandra were also turning heads. So much so the Gunners decided to sanction a January move to Austrian side Sturm Graz.
Keenly aware of that turn of events, Parkinson is understandably delighted that the deadline for a recall passed without any contact from Arsenal.
“It’s a massive signing for us to keep Arthur, he’s been exceptional for us,” he told the BBC.
“He’s a great lad and has bought in to everything the club is about. He’s moved up here and he’s been great to have around, but not just that, he’s a terrific goalkeeper.
“When someone plays well you always worry that they’ve caught the eye of other teams. So yes, I was pleased when the clock struck 12 after the 21st.”
Okonkwo’s contract at Arsenal ends in the summer at which point he’ll become a free agent. While it seems strange we’ve not attempted to cash in, it sounds like those charged with his development are pleased by his progress.
“They’re very interested in Arthur’s progress, and they know we’re looking after him well,” added Parkinson.
“This is a great stage for Arthur to play on, with the expectancy of everything here at Wrexham, playing in front of packed houses every week. They understand this is a great place for him to be.”
Okonkwo had this to say about his time at Wrexham: “It’s been great. I joined the team with a plan with the gaffer – at the beginning I was just waiting for my opportunity. Now it’s good to be playing and being involved with the team and helping as much as I can.
“I had no doubts I would be here until the end of the season. Our assistant coach at Arsenal looks after the loan goalkeepers and he has been in constant communication. I am here to stay and it’s a good feeling.”
Wrexham are looking to achieve back-to-back promotions having climbed out of non-league football. As things stand, that looks realistic. They are currently second in the League Two rankings. They also face Blackburn in the FA Cup 4th round on Monday.
Not sure why we haven’t extended. Makes no sense. 10 clean sheets in 20 games demonstrates he’s playing at a higher level than League Two, and he’s only 22.
Rather keep him than Raya.
Raya is here to stay, support him. He’s only going to get better for us.
Of course you would. And you would rather use course sand paper to wipe your arse.
From watching the Wrexham doc I don’t believe Parkinson can say a single sentence without swearing at least twice.
Presumably his comments have been censored…
F*** yeah!
And the boys know him as Farkinson
Aren’t we a very nice football club, letting our talented lads play away. Don’t worry about offering us any money, you just enjoy yourselves.
Judging by the photo I thought we’d signed Osimeh!