Arsenal kicked off their pre-season tour with a friendly against RC Lens on Friday night. The game itself had a very casual air about it until the hosts took the lead against the run of play.
The Gunners were without European stars such as Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud and Laurent Koscielny, among others. As such Arsene Wenger was forced to play a rotated team, offering chances to several youngsters such as Chuba Akpom, Jeff Reine-Adelaide and Chris Willock.
The Gunners were able to draw the game level through Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who made his welcome return to the first-team. He secured the draw with a beautiful chip into the far corner and from then on, the Gunners looked in control of the game. Sadly they were unable to find a winning goal, but there were many positives to be taken from the match.
Despite a below average result, Wenger will no doubt be happy to see his side complete their first full 90 minutes of pre-season.
Emiliano Martinez - 6/10
The young ‘keeper didn’t have too much to deal with in the first-half. Made a good save prior to Lens’ goal but had a quiet game besides that.
Mathieu Debuchy - 6.5/10
The Frenchman made his return to the Arsenal team following his loan in France last season. Looked committed on the ball and was always looking to start an attack. Made a few sloppy passes.
Per Mertesacker - 6/10
The experienced German looked his usual calm self in defence. Was unable to clear up the mess made by Chambers for Lens’ goal but didn’t really put a toe out of line.
Calum Chambers - 5/10
The young Englishman was as calm as ever when on the ball, but he fluffed a routine header which led to Lens scoring the first goal of the game. Clearly has ability, but needs more experience if he is going to nail down a starting spot in the team.
Nacho Monreal - 6.5/10
The Spaniard demonstrated the same coolness on the ball that won the hearts of all Arsenal fans last season. Was one of the classiest players on the pitch; going about his duties effectively and with purpose. Still the main LB for Arsenal.
Mohamed Elneny - 6/10
The Egyptian did a decent job in the middle of the park for Arsenal. Played a couple of beautiful passes to push an attack on but was also prone to the odd wayward shot or two.
Francis Coquelin - 7/10
The Frenchman will no doubt be under even more pressure this season to preform following the purchase of Granit Xhaka, but he did not look fazed by this and put in another solid performance. Patrolled the back four dutifully and had a decent first game back.
Jeff Reine-Adelaide - 7/10
The return of Jeff will no doubt have been a welcome sight for Arsenal fans who rate him very highly. The Frenchman didn’t disappoint as he was the focal point for a lot of Arsenal’s attacks. He wasn’t able to register a goal or assist but he came very close a couple of times. Very promising display.
Alex Iwobi - 6.5/10
The Nigerian turned into Arsenal’s golden boy at the end of last season and he will be hoping that he can continue his fine run of form this season. If this game was any indicator then his future at Arsenal looks safe as he was a particularly bright spark; trying to create attacks and adding his own flair to proceedings.
Theo Walcott - 5.5/10
The England winger divided many fans last season with his dodgy performances and many were left wondering whether he still had a place in the team. It was clear that Walcott tried his hardest against Lens, making some intelligent runs, but for one reason or another it just didn’t come off for him on the night. Looked bright though.
Chuba Akpom - 5.5/10
The young Englishman had a decent season with Hull last term and will be hoping he can push on and challenge Olivier Giroud for the striker role at Arsenal. Sadly, he didn’t shower himself in too much glory against Lens; shooting straight at the keeper in the first half and not really being involved for the rest. Tried his hardest but clearly has a little way to go.
Subs
Matt Macey – 6.5/10
Made a couple of fine saves after coming on at half-time.
Chris Willock – 6/10
Did a decent job after coming on and was involved in the build-up to the goal.
Krystian Bielik – 6/10
Didn’t make a mistake but didn’t stand out either.
Kieran Gibbs – 6.5/10
Still searching for a way to dislodge Monreal but getting his fitness levels up was the most important thing for him.
Gedion Zelalem – 6/10
Came on and looked every bit the Arsenal player, just needs a few more minutes under his belt.
Joel Campbell – 7/10
Looked as though he was trying too hard to make things work for him. Needs to calm down as he is still useful for the Gunners.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7.5/10
The Ox was the hero of the match. The Gunners didn’t look like scoring until he scored a deft chip late on. Looked very sharp and will wanting to earn his place in the team back.
Serge Gnabry – 6.5/10
Came on and looked like he had a point to prove. Assisted the goal and wanted to be involved in every attack. Clearly needs to prove his worth. Very promising.