Carl Jenkinson claims the past two seasons he spent at West Ham on loan allowed him to mature and gain ‘invaluable experience’.

The right-back unfortunately suffered a severe knee injury during his second season with the Hammers, forcing him to return to north London. However, now that he’s gradually returning to training, Jenko admits that his time in the east didn’t go to waste.

“I’ve definitely grown up a lot in the last couple of years,” he said to Arsenal.com.

“I like to think I’ve always been quite a mature lad but just learning how to deal in everyday life with certain situations, I think I’ve matured a lot. I think on the pitch I’m better at making decisions and it comes with experience.

“I’ve played a lot of football over the last couple of years for someone my age. I’ve played 50 odd games in the Premier League, which was fantastic for me. That experience is invaluable.”

This is exactly why we send players on loan. Experience and regular playing time is essential for players who want to develop and, even at the age of 24, Jenko still had a long way to go in order to challenge for a first team spot at Arsenal.

Although it’s doubtful that he’ll challenge Hector Bellerin now he’s back, it’ll still be useful to have another defender fit and ready to fight for the team. The lad loves the club so at least we can count on him in that sense.