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Arsene Wenger: Reiss Nelson not fazed by playing for Arsenal

Arsene Wenger watches on as Arsenal beat Benfica at the Emirates.
Image: Arsene Wenger watches on as Arsenal beat Benfica at the Emirates

Arsene Wenger has hailed Reiss Nelson's composure following the teenager's exceptional performance in Arsenal's5-2win over Benfica in the Emirates Cup.

The 17-year-old started in a right wing-back role against the Portuguese champions and assisted Olivier Giroud for his side's fourth goal with an inch-perfect cross into the penalty area.

Nelson, who is a product of the Arsenal youth academy, has impressed during the club's pre-season fixtures and looked extremely assured on his first senior outing at the Emirates.

Who is Reiss Nelson?
Who is Reiss Nelson?

He may be just 17 years old but Reiss Nelson has been one of the standout performers for Arsenal in their pre-season games this summer

Speaking after the game, Wenger said: "He's a young player from our academy and he has had an encouraging pre-season. He has shown that he can dribble, go past people and he isn't fazed by the occasion.

"He looks confident and it's good for him to play in these kind of games."

Although he started in a wing-back role, Nelson predominantly plays in an attacking midfield role for Arsenal's youth team and his pace and dribbling ability unsettled Benfica throughout the game.

Benfica's Brazilian midfielder Filipe Augusto (R) commits a hand-ball as Arsenal's English midfielder Reiss Nelson tries to pass the ball during the pre-se
Image: Reiss Nelson in action for Arsenal against Benfica in the Emirates Cup

Hopes are high at the Emirates that Nelson can follow Jack Wilshere, Alex Iwobi and Kieran Gibbs by graduating from the academy and establishing himself in the first team.

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The England U18 international is regarded as one of Arsenal's brightest talents and will be hoping to build on some exciting performances this summer next season.

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