Irish midfielder Jack Henry-Francis loaned to Sligo from Arsenal, Aodh Dervin joins Dundalk

Arsenal midfielder Jack Henry-Francis has joined Sligo Rovers on loan until the end of the 2024 season.

The Republic of Ireland underage international joins the Bit O'Red on a short-term loan deal, subject to international transfer clearance.

The 20-year-old midfielder joined the Gunners in 2016 from Fulham when he was 13 and has regularly trained with Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad.

Henry-Francis, who qualifies for Ireland through his parents’ Mayo and Leitrim heritage, has played six times for the Ireland U19s and once for the U21s against Kuwait last year.

Henry-Francis is the third new player to join Rovers this summer, following Stephen Mallon’s move from Cliftonville, and Luke Pearce who joined on loan from Cardiff City.

The London-born player is hoping to make the most of his time at the Showgrounds, with senior football very much on the agenda.

"I’m looking to get some exposure to first-team football really and when I get the chance, I want to put in some really good performances", he said.

"I think I can do that here. I’ve spoken a lot to John and about his plans for me and the squad for the rest of the year and it’s been very exciting. I know a fair bit about the league and have watched a fair bit of it since I knew I’d be moving over.

"There seems to be a lot of togetherness in the team and a lot of fight, along with some really good technical players."

Henry-Francis, who turns 21 in September, feel he has benefited from him career so far with the Gunners.

"It’s always a great experience being with Arsenal’s first team as it’s always intense as there are a lot of demands, but I feel that will stand to me at Rovers.

"The last few years, the level I’ve trained at has really made me play up a level as you’re training with