Wolves striker Benik Afobe open to Arsenal return

Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Benik Afobe has refused to rule out a return to Arsenal in the future but has criticised the club for sending him out on loan during his spell in North London.

Afobe moved to the Championship promotion hopefuls in the January transfer window after failing to make a single professional appearance in five years as a professional at The Emirates Stadium.

The 22-year-old was sent out on six loan spells during those five years, with the forward spending time with Huddersfield Town, Reading, Bolton Wanderers, Millwall, Sheffield Wednesday and most recently Milton Keynes Dons.

With 11 goals for new club Wolves since moving to the club at the turn of 2015, Afobe has justified his decision to leave Arsenal and could even come up against the club come next season should Kenny Jackett's side earn promotion.

But Afobe admits his progress was stifled by a series of loan spells prior to his permanent departure from Arsenal

"Maybe I shouldn't have gone on some of the loans," he told FourFourTwo. "Not because I wasn't good enough, but more for the fact that they're about getting you ready and improving your game.

"When I was injured I went straight back out on loan right after, when I probably should have stayed and played reserve football. The loan has to suit a player and it has to come at the right time in their career, but I do believe they help a lot of young English players."

Still in contact with several current Arsenal players including Jack Wilshere and a player who looks up to Thierry Henry, it is clear the Gunners remain in Afobe's heart and he admits he could yet return to the club given the opportunity.

"You never know," he added. "I've seen interviews of players saying they would never go back to this team or that team, but I don't like to wish anything on my future.

"I believe what happens in my life happens for a reason. I honestly couldn't tell you what I'd do – I take it one season at a time."