It was a frustrating start to the weekend for Arsenal’s loanees across Europe.

ENGLAND

Kaylen Hinds started as a centre forward in a two-striker formation, but could not help his side avoid defeat at home against Mansfield Town. The teenager was hauled off midway through the second-half.

Chuba Akpom came on as a second-half substitute once again for Brighton, but this time they suffered defeat as their five-match winning run was ended.

The striker only played seven minutes and it’s becoming a recurring theme that, in an attempt to keep everyone content, Akpom plays sparingly. It’s frustrating to see and makes you wonder if he’ll ever get an extended opportunity – after all, they secured automatic promotion last weekend and still have two fixtures remaining for him to showcase his ability.

Marc Bola was not involved as Notts County lost 2-1 away against ten-man Luton Town. It is unconfirmed as to whether the fullback was dropped, injured or rested for this fixture.

Where’s Calum Chambers’ performance breakdown? Read it here.

NETHERLANDS

Gedion Zelalem was an unused substitute as VVV-Venlo were held to a goalless draw against FC Eindhoven.

Kelechi Nwakali started and completed the full 90 minutes during MVV Maastricht’s 2-2 draw with PSV II. It’s now six games without a win for MVV, who are still in the promotion play-off places but losing ground with the teams above.

Go Ahead Eagles meanwhile, can only earn a relegation play-off place after their 2-0 defeat against Groningen on Saturday. Daniel Crowley was once again their best player, according to WhoScored.

The 19-year-old has been impressive recently and despite his side’s struggles for form, has been working hard to justify why he is so highly-rated.

His individual match statistics:

– Two key passes, 87.4% pass accuracy, 120 touches
– Five completed dribbles, fouled once and won 1 aerial duel
– Defensively, made four tackles (most for GAE) and two interceptions

PORTUGAL

In the weekend’s big clash, third-placed Sporting hosted league leaders Benfica. A win would close the gap to six points whilst Porto have a game in hand.

The result was a 1-1 draw and frustratingly, Joel Campbell didn’t have enough time to put his stamp on the match. Coming off the substitutes’ bench with just two minutes plus stoppages remaining, it’s clear that the coaching staff have lost faith in the Costa Rican and don’t deem him consistent enough to trust in a game of such magnitude.

With the likes of Krystian Bielik and Jon Toral still to play this weekend, we can only hope for further opportunities and a better overall display from those representing the club on-loan.

FRANCE

Ismael Bennacer started and played 63 minutes in central midfield during Tours’ 1-1 draw with Auxerre.