Wenger - Fringe players to get a chance

Arsene Wenger says he will give Arsenal’s youngsters a chance to impress him on tour.

Under-21 regulars Chuba Akpom, Dan Crowley, Alex Iwobi, Chris Willock and Gedion Zelalem have all travelled to Singapore with the team and could feature in the Gunners’ opening Barclays Asia Trophy match against a Singapore Select XI.

“For us it’s important because it’s a football game and the best way to test where you stand in pre-season is to see how far you are and how quickly we can find our game back,” the manager said.

“As well it’s a good opportunity for me to give a chance to players who are on the fringe of the team and to see how close they are to contributing. That can influence my decisions before the transfer market is over."

Arsenal face the Singapore Select XI on Wednesday and Wenger says his side are well prepared to face an energetic side.

“I have a good experience because I worked in Asia,” he said. “I know that usually these teams will be focused, they know that they play Arsenal and they prepare for this game for a long time.

“Usually what you face in Asia is very mobile teams, very quick teams and teams that are very disciplined so expect that kind of team on Wednesday. We have had some difficult experiences in Asia and because we are in the preparation as well you expect to suffer a little bit tomorrow tomorrow.”