Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain earns Arsenal a draw in Lens

It was Akpom who got the first chance for Arsenal early on, but the attacker had his shot saved by Lens goalkeeper Nicolas Douchez. Chuba Akpom started up front for an under-strength Gunners, with many of their leading players still yet to return following summer tournaments, while Alex Iwobi began just behind.

However, despite their bright start, the Gunners were fortunate not to fall behind when Abdellah Zoubir danced his way through only to fire an effort over the bar.

Nevertheless it was the Ligue 2 side that took the lead through Mathias Autret in the 37th minute, Calum Chambers being punished for a tame headed clearance.

Mohamed Elneny and Francis Coquelin began in the middle while Mathieu Debuchy was at right-back.

It was Lens who broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Zoubir latched onto a loose ball before teeing up Autret, who tapped home from close range, 1-0.

Wenger made six changes for the second half – Joel Campbell, Kieran Gibbs and Oxlade-Chamberlain among those coming on.

Arsenal began to turn the screw as the game wore on but Lens continued to frustrate the visitors with giant defender Abdoul Ba producing an accomplished display.

But with eight minutes remaining, Oxlade-Chamberlain equalised for Arsenal.

Next up for Wenger’s side is a clash with the MLS All-Stars on July 29.