Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain says Arsenal's new signings have given the squad an important boost ahead of the 2014/15 season.
Calum Chambers and Alexis Sanchez both made their debuts as four goals from Yaya Sanogo and a Joel Campbell volley helped the Gunners beat Benfica 5-1 in the Emirates Cup on Saturday.
Oxlade-Chamberlain played his first game for Arsenal since April and was pleased to come through 45 minutes against the Portuguese side.
"The first pre-season game back is always a bit tough on the legs and the lungs," he told Arsenal Player. "I had a little injury in the summer at the World Cup so I'm just trying to get back and it was nice to get out there.
"We know there's a lot of exciting players around the squad this year"
"There's more to come from me physically and once I get that the technical stuff will come through.
"I think you could see out there the boys were excited to get going, we know there's a lot of exciting players around the squad this year. With the likes of Alexis coming in with Debuchy and Chambers - we've got an extra spring in our step. There's competition for places and everyone wants to make an impression on the boss."
Sanogo netted his first goals for the club against Benfica and the England international was delighted to see his team-mate impress in front of the Emirates crowd.
"I'm really happy for Yaya, he's been aiming to get a goal on the board for a little while so to get four is a statement," he said.
"I'm looking forward to seeing him this season and hopefully he can push on and help the squad."
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