Mikel Arteta has done something for the first time in Arsenal history in EFL Cup clash vs Preston

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In Arsenal’s EFL Cup clash against Preston North End, Mikel Arteta did something for the first time at the club.

After overcoming Bolton Wanderers in the previous round, Arsenal travelled to Deepdale to challenge Championship outfit Preston North End. 

Unlike the Bolton clash, Arteta opted to field more experience than youth, with only Ethan Nwaneri and Tommy Setford representing the academy. 

The Spaniard will want to put together a strong cup run this season, as Arsenal continue to chase long overdue silverware. 

• READ MORE: Preston vs Arsenal: How to watch, injury news and everything you need to know for EFL Cup clash

Mikel Arteta makes Arsenal history during EFL Cup clash

Arsenal’s involvement in the EFL Cup is crucial for Arteta to allow the younger talents and fringe players in his squad to earn the chance to impress.

Against Bolton, Setford made his senior debut for the North Londoners after making the move from Ajax during the summer.

The 18-year-old will be overjoyed to have been trusted by Arteta, with there also a cause for celebration with regard to Arsenal’s history. 

By naming Setford in the starting XI, the manager wrote the teenager into the club’s history books as for the first time ever, the Gunners have fielded two teenage goalkeepers in a single campaign.

Setford’s debut comes after 16-year-old Jack Porter started between the sticks against Bolton at the Emirates, with the season presenting rare chances for the young shot-stoppers. 

Arteta sent clear message with Arsenal lineup vs Preston

Last time out in the cup against Bolton, Arteta handed senior minutes to as many as six Hale End jewels but the Spaniard’s approach changed significantly for the Preston test. 

As mentioned, only Nwaneri and Setford represent the teenagers in the starting XI, seeing the lineup littered with highly-experienced players. 

The manager’s selection only emphasises Arsenal’s desire to win silverware this season, with something of a no-nonsense attitude evident in Arteta’s starting lineup at Deepdale.