“He’s brilliant” Manager admits Arsenal talks over extending 21yos loan deal | OneFootball

Speaking after Friday’s 2-2 draw with Galway United, Russell made clear his desire to keep the 21-year-old at the Showgrounds for next season, despite the strong likelihood of other clubs vying for his services.

Arsenal loanee Jack Henry-Francis with the Player of the Match award after a game with Sligo Rovers (Photo via League of Ireland on Twitter)

“He’s a top-class player. He keeps getting better and better. You’d love to keep him. I’ve been having talks in the background with Arsenal and with Jack,” Russell said.

Henry-Francis, an Irish underage international, joined Sligo Rovers in the summer and has since become an important figure for the club. The midfielder initially had to wait for his chance behind Rovers’ consistent midfield trio of Connor Malley, Niall Morahan, and Ellis Chapman, but injuries and suspensions opened the door—an opportunity he seized.

Since then, Henry-Francis has been influential in his performances, even winning Player of the Match during Rovers’ clash against title-chasing Derry City earlier this month. On that occasion, he delivered an assist, created six chances, made four tackles, and maintained an impressive 94% pass accuracy rate.

SWINDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 07: Jack Henry-Francis of Arsenal is tackled by Ricky Aguiar of Swindon Town during the Papa John’s Trophy match between Swindon Town and Arsenal U21 at County Ground on September 07, 2021 in Swindon, England. (Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images)

His contributions have not only elevated Sligo’s game but also garnered wider attention, with Russell fully aware that the youngster will likely have several options available when his loan ends.

“Jack is a player that is probably going to go up the levels. Everyone can see that; he’s come over to get first-team football. He’s really enjoyed his time at Sligo. He’s settled in with the group, and the boys love him,” Russell added, lauding Henry-Francis’ attitude and the completeness of his performances.

“He’s such a joy to watch, not only on the ball but with his work rate, his energy, and his tackles. He’s jumping up against 6ft 3 lads and winning headers. He’s brilliant.”

WALSALL, ENGLAND – MARCH 23: Aaron Ramsey of England runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Mohammed Olabosun Lawal and Jack Henry-Francis of Republic of Ireland during the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Qualifying match between England MU19 and Republic of Ireland U19 on March 23, 2022 in Walsall, England. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)

Henry-Francis’ progression hasn’t been without its challenges. He was sent off against Shamrock Rovers earlier in the campaign but bounced back from his suspension with strong performances, demonstrating resilience and professionalism. Russell has made no secret of his desire to retain the midfielder, stating, “If we could keep him for next year, we’d be delighted, but he’ll have options. That’s the reality.”

For Sligo Rovers, retaining Henry-Francis would be a significant boost, but the midfielder’s development suggests that his trajectory might involve returning to Arsenal or moving elsewhere for higher-level competition. “When lads come here on loan, they’re trying to move on in their own careers, but his experience here has been really positive. You never know what might happen in the future,” Russell concluded.

Jack Henry-Francis playing for Sligo Rovers (Photo via Sligo Rovers on Instagram)

Looking ahead, Rovers are set to end their season with a final clash against St. Patrick’s Athletic on November 1st. Despite missing out on a top-four finish, Russell believes his side has made great strides this year.

The team, once dismissed as relegation candidates, has exceeded expectations, delivering some of the best football in the league, according to Russell. “People had written us off, saying we were going to get relegated. We were nowhere near it. We’ve made huge strides this year, a lot of improvements,” he said.

Russell’s goal for the coming season is clear—to keep a core group of players together, ideally including Jack Henry-Francis, and build on the progress made this year.

Whether Arsenal will see fit to extend the young midfielder’s spell remains to be seen, but there is no question that Henry-Francis has left an indelible mark on Sligo Rovers during his time at the Showgrounds.