Freddie Ljungberg reveals the reason behind his Arsenal team selection at Everton: ‘I picked a team that I believed in’

The Swede, who was in charge of the first-team for the final time before new boss Mikel Arteta officially takes over, made five changes for their trip to Goodison Park following their 3-0 defeat at home to Man City last weekend.

Senior players including Alexandre Lacazette and record signing Nicolas Pepe were benched.

Mesut Ozil was not in the squad, citing an injury, but Ljungberg stated that the German would not have been picked anyway, even if he was fit.

He said: “Mesut wouldn’t have been in the squad anyway given what happened in the last game [kicked his gloves when being substituted].”

It meant the likes of Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli were given the chance to shine.

And the kids helped the Gunners get a point as they played out a goalless draw in a thoroughly dull Goodison Park clash.

But Ljungberg said he was very proud of the team.

Speaking to Nigel Adderley, he said: “I picked a team that I believed in, that had the energy because I wasn’t happy against Man City.

“Of course, they are very young but we controlled the game, controlled the game without possession and that’s what I’m happy about.

“The first half Everton had energy but they died down. In the second half we controlled it more and more.

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