5 Things We Learned From Arsenal Vs. Singapore XI
What can be taken from The Gunner's 4-0 pre-season victory?
Arsenal are into the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy after beating a Singapore Select XI 4-0 in their first pre-season game. A hat-trick from youngster Chuba Akpom as well as a Jack Wilshere penalty gave Arsenal a comfortable victory, and they will now go on to face Everton in the final on Saturday. Arsene Wenger put trust in his young squad, having only named six substitutes for the match and opportunities being given to several youth players.
Several big names were not involved, with the likes of Mesut Özil, Petr Cech and Alexis Sanchez missing out. The youngsters did not hesitate to take their chance though, with Arsenal always in control and rarely threatened at the back against what was a very average Singapore Select XI. New signing Cech is expected to start on Saturday, after youngster Emiliano Martinez was given a chance to impress in their landslide victory.
Arsenal's first real test will come against more familiar opposition in Everton, after they beat Mark Hughes' Stoke on penalties to progress to the final. In spite of it being a friendly match against average opposition, there are many lessons to be learned from Arsenal's victory. Here at WhatCultureSport we look at 5 things we can take from today's game.
5. Chuba Akpom Is Ready For More First Team Football
Akpom was given an opportunity to impress by Arsene Wenger, having scored a combined total of 15 goals in 23 games for Arsenal's academy sides last season. The 19 year-old started in the central striker role, and looked dangerous every time he got the ball. His movement, enthusiasm and composure caused the Singapore XI problems throughout - proven by the hat-trick he scored.
Though the youngster has had limited playing time both at Arsenal and elsewhere on loan (this was only his 22nd career senior club appearance), he looked ahead of his years both mentally and physically. Arsene Wenger loves to produce his own footballers, and more pre-season performances like today's could see Chuba Akpom play more of a role in the Arsenal senior squad this season - especially given Arsenal's supposed need for another striker.