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Marc Bola has given a positive assessment of his loan spell at Notts County so far, believing himself to be improving as a player.

The Arsenal loanee also urges fellow Premier League academy prospects to consider making switches to the Football League, where they can get first-team action in challenging environments.

In an interview with the Nottingham Post, the full-back said: "It's been great for me to come here and get experience. There is a difference in terms of the facilities but you just kind of adapt to that.

"It was a big step to come out of London, but I am getting used to it. The lads are helping me and taking me round town and I've enjoyed that.

"In academy football I am used to the ball being on the floor. You get time and space and you will may be have three options on at one time, but at this level, the ball is in the air a lot more and there's no time. Your first thought when you get the ball is up and over.

"But I am enjoying every moment of being here. I can feel myself improving as a player because I am dishing out instructions to others. I have responsibility to be vocal and you are not scared to scream at somebody to say they aren't doing a job.

"You're not holding back and you need that responsibility to progress. So when I go back to Arsenal if somebody isn't doing their job I will be on them. But I am enjoying every moment of being here.

"If you can get out on loan then I would do it. Under-23s football is good for development but at League Two clubs they are giving youngsters like me a chance and it's such good experience.

"You have to earn respect and it turns you into a man. You have to be on it from minute one, or you will get a kick. I am really enjoying my time here and I am improving as a player."

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It would help in our department re: football in the air if Notts actually tried to keep it on the ground. We aren't one of those sides can master the long ball or ping pong style game, in fact we struggle and many opposition teams used this against us at Meadow Lane this season.

Academy football will always be a 'learning system' rather than competitive or physical.

Though I know full well that some players would thrown up joining a side beneath the Championship basically because they're already earning a good salary and therefore pampered. More should consider trying their hands at League One or Two, though that said a club has more decision with regards to where their youngsters are shipped out on loan. Perhaps these clubs should consider more wisely where youths learn the game?

It's hard to argue with then. :P

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