by Nia Griffiths

Just when you thought we could begin to relax ahead of Arsenal’s Community Shield match against Chelsea on Sunday, we drop the bombshell that we’ll be loaning out Isaac Hayden to Hull City this season.

The move comes as a shock, at least to me, as many believed now was the 20-year-old’s time to shine at Arsenal.

The young defensive midfielder only played seven times last season after sustaining an awful ankle ligament injury. However, before this, he’d been destined for big things.

After making an appearing during pre-season, Arsene Wenger has obviously decided the player is ready to go out on loan and get some experience before he gets a good shot at Arsenal next season.

Speaking about the move to the Championship side, Hayden said, “It’s exactly what I need at this stage of my career. This club is an ambitious one, so to be part of this is a great opportunity. It’s a chance for me to prove myself.”

On one hand, this is a good move for the player. However, it also makes me nervous considering our lack of defensive midfielders. Us loaning him out doesn’t seem like the move of a club who is actively searching for a player in his position, unless we’re looking to replace him.