Arsenal XI V Boreham Wood – Friendly – Match Preview

Arsenal wrap up their pre-season preparations this evening with the once traditional friendly against Non-League Boreham Wood at Meadow Park.

The fixture used to be a regular in the Gunners calender – as Arsenal’s lady’s side also play at Meadow Park – but last year the game was put on the back burner. However, it’s back this evening and promises to be an exciting and interesting clash.

Last time out saw a comfortable victory, with Nacer Barazite, Fran Merida, Kieran Gibbs, James Dunne and Abu Ogogo featuring as newly signed scholars. Fran and Nacer were amongst the scorers, and the pair are both in the squad, and both expected to start.

All but two – Fran Merida (International Duty) and Rhys Murphy (Not Selected) – have been involved with the first-team this summer, and all will look to show their improvement from last season. Fran and Simpson were both out on loan last term, and they too will also be keen to make a firm impression on the manager.

Kieran Gibbs, Jay Emmanuel-Thomas and Jack Wilshere are not in contention following the Amsterdam Tournament, but the side will have a strong and relatively experienced feel for a youth game.

Predicted Starting XI

Mannone
Rodgers – Nordtveit (c) – G.Hoyte – Steer
Lansbury  – Dunne – Merida – Watt
Simpson – Barazite

Subs – Szczesny, Bartley, Ogogo, Frimpong, Murphy, Fonte.

Prediction – Arsenal 4-0 Boreham Wood

Kick off at Meadow Park is at 7.30pm UK time. The fixture is live on Arsenal TV, Arsenal TV Online and Setanta Sports, or should you have neither of these, a full Match Report will be available immediately after the full time whistle.

Article By – J.Sanderson