Arsenal began their pre-season activities ahead of the 2022/2023 campaign with a comprehensive 5-1 victory over lower league opposition Ipswich Town in a behind-closed-doors friendly, with Eddie Nketiah netting a hat-trick of goals in the match.
The striker last month ended speculation over his future by signing a new long-term contract, and was given the iconic No 14 jersey famously worn by club legend Thierry Henry.
And Henry’s prowess appears to be rubbbing off on Nketiah, as he scored three goals inside 35 minutes and assisted a fourth for Albert Sambi Lokonga in an action-packed first half at London Colney.
Folarin Balogun added a fifth goal after the break before Sone Aluko scored a consolation for Ipswich.
All the players involved for the Gunners were those back for pre-season training this week, having not featured in the end-of-season internationals.
The trio of Thomas Partey, Ben White and Nicolas Pepe all started the game, while returnee loanees Hector Bellerin, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Reiss Nelson also got 45 minutes under their belts.
Arsenal will be leaving for Germany on Monday, as their pre-season activities continue against Nurnberg on Friday, July 8th.
Apex Football News 