Arsenal midfielder Gedion Zelalem is impressing on loan at Rangers in a deal which is giving him his first taste of professional football.

Still just 18 years of age, the future USA international is delighted to have been given the opportunity to play for Rangers as Arsenal wait for him to develop and be ready for regular football at the Emirates Stadium.

Speaking to rangers.co.uk, Zelalem confirmed that the Gunners are watching his progress closely.

“Arsenal always text me when there is a scout coming to watch so they know I am progressing, even in training because they talk to the gaffer so they know how I’m training,” the midfielder said

“Hopefully Arsene Wenger will get good feedback about me.”

Arsenal have sent 11 players out on loan this season, but Zelalem is glad that the club are keeping a close eye on him.

“The problem with some clubs is that they put your out on loan and forget about you but that is where Arsenal are different; it’s not just me they keep an eye on everyone and don’t forget them.”

You can imagine it’s very easy to suddenly neglect the development of a player when they are away from the club, but it’s great to hear that isn’t happening at Arsenal. Big things are expected of Zelalem and it’s vital that the club keep him happy, especially as his first-team opportunities in London will be limited for the time being.

Thankfully he is getting plenty of football at Rangers in a team that suits him, and will continue to develop throughout his time there. Maybe when he returns to north London he will be ready for Arsène Wenger’s squad.