Arsenal travel to Underhill to face Barnet tomorrow in the traditional curtain-raiser to the new season. Last year saw Arsenal win 2-0 thanks to goals from Emmanuel Adebayor and Nacer Barazite. The former won’t be involved tomorrow but the latter is in the squad and could be set to play a key role tomorrow as Arsene Wenger looks to try out his options ahead of the new campaign. Absentees include Abou Diaby, Eduardo and Tomas Rosicky (all injured), whilst the players who played at Euro 2008 and in the African qualifiers began training later and so are not at full fitness yet. What it does mean though is that some of Arsenal’s younger players will be on show in the familiar surroundings of Underhill, where the club play their home reserve games. The much-hyped Jack Wilshere is in the squad along with the likes of Jay Simpson, Paul Rodgers, James Dunne, Rene Steer and Abu Ogogo who all have points to prove. Fran Merida and Kieran Gibbs are away at the u-19 European Championships, but new signing Aaron Ramsey will be on display as well as Carlos Vela, who will be making his first appearance in an Arsenal shirt. Unusually, three goalkeepers have been named in the squad although only two are likely to be used.
In a change from their usual squad numbers, the starting XI will bear the numbers from 1 to 11 on their backs, whilst the subs will wear 12 to 24.
Barnet should provide decent opposition as the players get back into the matchday groove. You can view the results from previous encounters here (anyone remember that 10-1 win?).
Arsenal are expected to start with a strong side and bring the less experienced players on towards the end and by the way substitutions are unlimited for pre-season friendlies.
Tomorow’s game kicks off at 3PM and if, like me, you’re going then enjoy the game. But if you don’t have a ticket you can still follow the action on Arsenal TV or TV Online.
A full match report will be available when I get home, including exclusive pictures.Stay close to the action on Arsenal Youth.
Update: It seems as if Francis Coquelin is a late addition to the squad to replace the injured Carlos Vela.
