Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has no regrets about heading to the Emirates

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain believes Arsenal’s next generation are ready to shine, despite Tuesday night’s Carling Cup exit to Manchester City.

The young Gunners were beaten by a City ‘reserve’ side with a combined cost of �130m, but were far from disgraced with Oxlade-Chamberlain the star performer.

And the 18-year-old admitted afterwards: “We wanted to win and get through so we were disappointed in that respect, but there were lots of positives to take from it.

“There were a lot of young players who can be proud of themselves. We stuck with them for the vast majority of the game. It was 0-0 and we got done late on the counter which was disappointing.

“Arsenal is a massive club as well and we are never going to be that far behind. Even the boys in the reserves are top drawer.

“City are flying at the moment and have some great players so it was a good test. You have to test yourself against the best and I did ok. So I’m happy with that.”

Oxlade-Chamberlain denied suggestions that he was frustrated at having only started four games since joining from Southampton for �10m in the summer, and is happy to bide his time at the Emirates.

“When I signed I didn’t expect to jump into the team straight away. I came from Southampton which was a few leagues down and I knew signing here that I would not play week in, week out as much as I would want to.

“You would be naive not to think that but just training with these players every day and listening to the coaches and the manager and being around Arsenal Football Club, I have learned so much already. I wouldn’t change it for the world.

“I’ve already noticed there are parts of my game I need to change, and playing against the best defenders makes you realise that.

“Every time I get an opportunity I’m going to keep on learning and making the most of every chance I get.”

His next chance is likely to come in next week’s final Champions League group game against Olympiakos.

Arsenal are already guaranteed to finish top of the group, and will send a young side to Athens on Tuesday.