Spending the season on loan at Rangers, Gedion Zelalem has had a successful first campaign in professional football.

The teenage talent had restricted to youth team involvement and just two substitute Arsenal appearances in his young career before his move north of the border last summer.

Playing for Mark Warburton’s side, Zelalem has been trusted to play intelligent and attacking football in the middle of midfield, excelling for months and doing well in a side which went on to win the league.

With a cup final still to come, Zelalem has toyed with the idea of returning to Rangers when the season ends but his main focus is on  fighting for a place at Arsenal.

“The whole point of a loan deal is to get experience and I’ll go back to Arsenal and strive to get involved there,” said the 19-year-old midfielder, who says the Gunners have stayed in touch during his time in Glasgow.

“The contact has been good and they get a lot of feedback and scouts have been coming to watch the games.

“When I go back though, I will always keep in touch with Rangers and see how they are doing.”

Making 28 appearances in all competitions, the season has been invaluable for the midfielder. Another loan spell may beckon soon but it’s become clear the midfielder’s target is to play in north London before too long.

With Arsenal set to lose Mikel Arteta, Mathieu Flamini and Tomas Rosicky this season, pre-season in Zelalem’s home country could be the best chance to stake a claim for a place.

Jack Wilshere, Mesut Özil, and Aaron Ramsey are unlikely to be available when Arsenal visit the USA: can Zelalem earn a permanent place in the first team squad?