Arsenal midfielder Jack Henry-Francis joins Sligo Rovers on loan
Jack Henry-Francis Credit: Sligo Rovers
Arsenal's Jack Henry-Francis has signed with Sligo Rovers on loan, set to stay with the Bit O’Red until the end of the 2024 season.
The move brings the Republic of Ireland underage international to the League of Ireland Premier Division.
The 20-year-old midfielder, who joined Arsenal from Fulham at 13, has been part of Mikel Arteta’s first-team training sessions.
Henry-Francis, eligible to play for Ireland through his parents' heritage from Mayo and Leitrim, has appeared six times for the Irish under-19s and once for the U21s against Kuwait.
London-born Henry-Francis expressed his eagerness to make an impact at Sligo Rovers: "I’m looking to get some exposure to first-team football and when I get the chance, I want to put in some really good performances. I think I can do that here."
This summer, he becomes the third new addition to Sligo Rovers, following Stephen Mallon from Cliftonville and Luke Pearce on loan from Cardiff City.
Reflecting on his time at Arsenal, he said, “Being with Arsenal’s first team is always intense with a lot of demands, but that experience will stand to me at Rovers. Training at such a high level has made me play up a level.”
Rovers manager John Russell is enthusiastic about the new signing, stating, “I am delighted to bring Jack to the Showgrounds. He is a tenacious midfielder with real energy and aggression. It's important to add quality to the group, and Jack fits that profile. We’re excited to work with him, and he’s keen to make an impact this season.”
