Arsenal youngster Campbell happy with Lorient loan

Costa Rican forward hails Ligue 1's physicality and competitiveness and hopes that he can return to the Emirates Stadium this summer and grab a first-team place with the Gunners

Young Arsenal striker Joel Campbell has appreciated his season on loan at French side Lorient and firmly believes that it will help his career in the long run.

The Costa Rica international, still only 19, has spent the season with the Ligue 1 strugglers, making 25 appearances for Christian Gourcuff's side and scoring four goals for the club.

Campbell is set to return to pre-season training with the Gunners in July and expects his time in France to hold him in good stead.

He told Arsenal's official website: "It was tough for me because I wanted to play for Arsenal this season, but it’s a new experience for me and it’s a question of doing well, learning from European football and then coming back to Arsenal.

"Football in France is very tactical, very tough and very physical"

"Coming to Lorient has been really good for me. It’s a new experience for me to come and get a taste of French football, which is very competitive. I’ve learnt a lot here.

"I came here just before the fourth round of games in Ligue 1 and they gave me the best possible welcome. They helped me and got me settled down quickly in the team so I could help them and the side. Lorient play a very similar game to Arsenal and that’s helped me for what lies ahead.

"Football in France is very tactical, very tough and very physical. It’s been great for me, though. I’ve learnt a lot from the football here and I hope it helps me for my career.

"I’ve learnt a lot of things from being in a relegation battle: mental strength and the unity we need to have to avoid relegation. These are tough times and for a player like me who’s just starting out it’s a great experience."