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Match report: Lucas returns as Woodburn inspires U23s to Arsenal win

Michael Beale fielded a strong side at the Emirates Stadium after successive 4-1 defeats to Southampton and Chelsea, and he was rewarded with a confident, commanding performance from the young Reds.

Lucas, making his first appearance since sustaining an injury in the first team’s pre-season friendly at Huddersfield Town last month, started at centre-back alongside Andre Wisdom and gave a typically-assured display before being replaced by Joe Maguire at half-time.

The damage was mainly done in the first 45 minutes as Arsenal were overwhelmed by Liverpool’s fluid attacking trio of Woodburn, Harry Wilson and Toni Gomes.

Beale’s team were ahead in the 13th minute thanks to Woodburn’s composed finish, and the 16-year-old then lit up the Emirates with a wonderful second goal shortly before the break.