TWO of Arsenal's promising youngsters have spoken about their positive experiences on-loan at Championship clubs, writes Russell Greaves. Mark Randall and Kieran Gibbs are both currently enjoying fruitful spells in the English second tier and Randall, on-loan at promotion hopefuls Burnley, feels right at home.
"It has started off well and I have settled in comfortably," he told Arsenal.com. "It is nice that all the lads made me feel welcome. Outside of football I have settled in too and I think it is a good place for me to be right now.'' The 18-year-old made his debut in a Carling cup tie in 2006 and featured briefly in the Gunners 1-1 semi-final first-leg draw with fierce rivals Tottenham in the same competition this year. A string of impressive performances for the reserves attracted the attention of Owen Coyle, and the Burnley boss secured his services in January.
"I want to be forcing myself into the starting side regularly but if I am not there then that is up to me. I know I won't walk straight into the team so I must keep working hard in training and performing when I get my chance."
Meanwhile Gibbs, born just two days before his Arsenal team-mate, is currently getting used to life in Norfolk, where he is on-loan with Norwich City, under the guidance of manager Glenn Roeder.
''It a loan move was put to me at the beginning of January,'' he told vitalfootball.co.uk. "
"I think it is the best place for me because I know David Bentley had a good time of it at Norwich and it is a good club.
"A few other teams had been mentioned but Norwich was recommended to me and I was happy to go with it.'' The Lambeth born midfielder has only made four appearances but he appreciates the value of the experience, both as a footballer and a young man.
''I wouldn't say it has been easy to adapt to up here but it's a challenge I am happy to take it on.
"The football side of things are a bit different and that has been good for me. It is also a lot quieter up here. I wouldn't say I am a country boy so I am not used to the quiet life. I am staying in a country club hotel with three other players so that has been fine.'' Gibbs is sure that he will benefit from the loan spell and highlighted how his experience has already opened his eyes to a few of the realities of life as a pro.
''I have learnt how intense it is playing at a professional level. The amount of games you have, you don't realise it until you are at that level that you have to look after yourself properly.''
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