Arsenal legend Ray Parlour has revealed why he believes manager Unai Emery is choosing to start young French midfielder Matteo Guendouzi.
Speaking to the Daily Star, Parlour - who played more than 450 games for Arsenal in all competitions - said he felt Guendouzi's form during pre-season was the reason he's been one of the Gunners' starting midfielders so far this season.
When the unheralded 19-year-old joined this summer from French second-tier side Lorient for around £8m, it was widely expected he would initially link up with the London club's under-23s.
About Guendouzi's unexpected starting role, Parlour said: "Guendouzi deserves his opportunity because he’s been one of our best midfielders in pre-season.