Arsenal youngster Trae Coyle was happy playing alongside Pablo Mari for their U23 defeat to Chelsea yesterday.

It marked on-loan Flamengo defender Mari's first appearance in an Arsenal shirt.

Coyle later said, "We've played with Rob (Holding) a lot of times and he's always been good with us.

"Obviously he has so much ability and I was very impressed with Pablo as well. Playing with those two was definitely a big help today.

"The start of the year has been tough for me because I've been ill and had a few injuries. To play a full game today was good, I felt well and I felt good so hopefully I can kick on and keep improving."