Arsenal’s loanees are some of the most talked about and debated players at the club, with thousands of fans using websites, blogs and social media to put their points across on potential stars of the future.

However, few truly know the daily goings on of players at their loan clubs like the actual supporters of that particular outfit. To get the full perspective on another crop of exciting youngsters, Young Guns’ Loanee Analysis sees me catch up with journalists who follow their club closely.

To get the low-down on Henri Lansbury, I caught up with Michael Bailey, a sports journalist who works for the Eastern Daily Press and PinkUn.com. He gave me the Norwich perspective on Lansbury’s time in Norfolk.

What was the feeling when Henri signed for Norwich?

“I think initially there was a little surprise, given City were flushed with midfielders. But his debut came in the 4-1 home win over Ipswich, which he started, and Lansbury’s performance whetted the appetite perfectly. His energy and quality on the ball shone through that day, and consistently after.”

How has the season been, and what part did Lansbury played in it?

“As you can imagine, the season has been magical for all Norwich fans. From the depths of League One football, then going on to complete back-to-back promotions without the need for the play-offs. It’s a rare achievement for any club, let alone Norwich.”

“As for Lansbury, he contributed a great deal to it: Four goals in 23 appearances, including the winner against Millwall with the final kick of the game that was really special. An equaliser at Leeds, followed by his now cult Dougie dance, and a substitute appearace for the final nine minutes against Bristol City at home that turned one point into three. There have been plenty of star performers for Norwich this season, but Lansbury is definitely up there with them.”

What would you consider his highlights this season?

“His appearance against Bristol City was probably key, having such a dramatic effect on the game, at a time when a win took Norwich second in the Championship on a Monday night, after their promotion rivals had all slipped up. It was a big moment in the season.”

What would you consider his low-lights this season?

“Nothing really. Maybe the fact that later in his spell, he wasn’t getting in the starting XI due to how settled City were. I’m sure that was a little frustrating for him. But still, when he came on he looked the part. He always seemed committed to the cause, and the opposition would have almost certainly looked at having someone like him to come on from the bench as a sign of City’s strength in depth.”

What does the future hold and do you think he’ll make the grade at Arsenal?

“It’s difficult to say. He is still young and at Premier League level, there are things you just cannot get away with. He does like the odd Hollywood pass, and they don’t always come off. That said, he has fantastic quality on the ball, some serious commitment and, for me, I think Arsenal could have done with him at times this season, let alone in the future. I would be surprised if he didn’t feature more at the Emirates next season.”

Any other stats, facts or little pieces of extra information?

“It’s worth noting that the Norwich fans at the open top bus parade were chanting for Lansbury to sign for another year on loan. I personally believe Paul Lambert will have an eye on permanent signings first, but most would welcome him back here with open arms in the Premier League next season.”

You can read all the articles in this series in our loanees area.