Will Folarin Balogun take another penalty? USMNT star makes bold spot-kick statement after missing two in the same game for Monaco

Back in September, when making his first start for Monaco following a big-money transfer from Arsenal, Balogun fluffed his lines on a couple of occasions from 12 yards during a meeting with Nice. The 22-year-old striker is adamant that he would step up again for club and country if asked to do so, with the United States international not one to dwell on events of the past.

Balogun has told Monaco’s official website when asked about his previous failings from the spot and whether he is still a go-to option for Ligue 1 employers: “After the match, my team-mates talked to me and helped me pick my head up. They told me it was football and that I should continue to stay positive. Today, I don’t necessarily think about it and I know that I will have other opportunities to score other goals. If I have to take another penalty, I will. But if the coach designates another taker, I will leave it to him, it is the collective spirit that must prevail.”

Balogun has registered four goals for Monaco through 12 appearances this season and is determined to raise his game in all departments. He added on striving for continuous improvement: “I have the mentality of always wanting to do better, with the aim of helping the team win matches. Personally, I am focused on my work without looking at what the other attackers in the French league are doing. This is the best way to be decisive.”

Monaco sit third in the Ligue 1 table at present, as they seek to book return tickets to the Champions League party, and Balogun will be back in action on Friday when taking in a home date with Lyon.