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Ramsey - Emirates Cup a big test for us

Aaron Ramsey

Aaron Ramsey says the strength of Arsenal’s Emirates Cup opponents provides them with the ideal preparation for the new season.

The Gunners will face Europa League finalists Benfica on Saturday, before taking on Ligue 1 runners-up Monaco 24 hours later.

Ramsey is anticipating two tough games, and stressed their importance with the 2014/15 campaign now just a matter of weeks away.

"It’s a great test for us before the season starts, even though we’ll still be building up for then. It will be nice to get that competitive football"

Aaron Ramsey

“The Emirates Cup always brings good teams who have played at the highest level and this year it’s no different. Both teams have some really good players,” he told Arsenal.com.

“It’s a great test for us before the season starts, even though we’ll still be building up for then. It will be nice to get that competitive football.

“It’s a great tournament. It gets all the fans excited because they know that the season is not too far away. It’s a good couple of days and all of the players are looking forward to coming back and playing at the Emirates again.

“It’s also good for younger players to get opportunities to show what they can do against these teams. It’s nice for the fans to get the chance to see these young players coming through as well.”