Arsenal beat Leyton Orient 2-0 in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Saturday ahead of this week’s USA tour.

Gabriel Jesus and Emile Smith Rowe were on the scoresheet, as part of a reasonably strong Gunners side with the players who didn’t feature on international duty over the summer.

With the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz enjoying their holidays, it gives Mikel Arteta a chance to field his rotation forward options to get a good look at them ahead of the new season.

In their place, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson flanked Jesus in attack, looking lively throughout.

The left wing spot in particular was rotated fairly frequently last season and with the first-choice trio away, there’s a chance for one of the friendly starters to stake a claim for a spot on opening day.

Fabio Vieira and Smith Rowe also got minutes, both with much to prove as they fight for a place in the squad this season.

With some of the usual starters away, Arteta needs to use the next couple of games to make a decision on each of their roles.

Meanwhile, Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey, both of whom had injury-riddled seasons last year, played 45 minutes as they ramp up ahead of the new campaign.

Partey, in particular, could have an important role to play this season should Arsenal not sign a midfielder, and may well be first choice alongside Declan Rice and captain Martin Odegaard this year.

The skipper also started after a summer off, and Arteta will be turning to his captain to lead the charge during the opening weeks as the freshest of the attacks heading into the season.

Youngsters Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ayden Heaven both made the starting line-up, with many other youth players featuring off the bench.

Pre-season is the best time for the youth players to impress and showcase their talents for a loan move or even a chance in the first team.

Last season, the defence was a real strong point for Arsenal, while the open play attack remained a little lacklustre at times.

Each year, Arteta’s side has evolved during pre-season and this year, focusing on the attack would be welcome among the fans.

After meeting Bournemouth in Los Angeles today (Thursday), the Gunners take on Manchester United on Sunday.