Arsenal FC News: Could this be Ryo ‘Ryodinho’ Miyaichi’s Breakthrough Season?
Scintillating Japanese winger Ryo Miyaichi is keen to land a permanent spot in Arsenal FC's first team, after gaining invaluable experiences from previous loan spells.
The 20-year-old enjoyed spells at Feyenoord, Bolton Wanderers, and Wigan Athletic from 2011 to 2013 before having been called back to the squad because of his impressive performances, when healthy.
"In pre-season I had a little ankle problem, and I had another injury after the Asia tour. But I'm getting there, so hopefully there'll be the opportunity to play more this season," Miyaichi told arsenal.com.
"Last season was disappointing and of course you feel frustrated. I spent most of my time at Wigan in the treatment room, but the only thing to do is to come back stronger. Everyone gets injuries and you just have to get over them."
Injuries has plagued Ryo's young career, making him miss a historic event when he was with Wigan - lifting the FA Cup.
Unfortunately, the Latics were relegated from the top flight, ironically, in the hands of the Gunners, following the success at Wembley.
"Yes, it was a surprise," Ryo said of Wigan's relegation.
"We played very well throughout the season but couldn't win enough games, and that was the problem. We played very good football, though, and winning the FA Cup was still a fantastic achievement. It means Wigan will play in the Europa League this season and that will be a great experience for the club."
Ryo was all praises to then Wigan manager Roberto Martinez who served as one of his inspirations.
"It was a great experience to work with him - I found him to be a very good person. When I was injured he kept telling me: 'I need you back, I need you to play', and that made me so happy. It was such a motivation for an injured player."
Ryodinho, a nickname which was given to him by the Dutch media during his stint in the Eredivisie, has found it easier to settle in England because of the presence of some of his compatriots.
"When I was at Wigan, Kagawa lived very close, about 20 minutes away," he intimated.
"He took care of me and we saw each other a lot, and even now he comes to London for dinner sometimes. There is a good group of Japanese players here now - I also see Maya Yoshida and Tadanari Lee, who are at Southampton, quite regularly. It's helpful to have friends from your home country."
When asked if he would consider moving to another club again for another loan deal, he answered in the negative and stated that he wants to develop his craft at the Emirates and learn from world-class players.
As can be gleaned, Ryodinho's breakthrough is excitingly imminent.