Jack Wilshere will take his Arsenal U18 side to his hometown club Hitchin Town FC for a pre-season friendly that also serves as a testimonial for former Hitchin captain Dan Webb.

Arsenal and Hitchin have a strong relationship that has included everything from Pat Rice switching on the club’s new floodlights to young Arsenal goalkeeper Brian Okonkwo coming in on an emergency one game loan for the Canaries against Nuneaton Borough last season.

Arsenal’s U18s last took on the Southern League Premier Central side in 2021, with Hitchin running out 2-0 winners.

Manager Jack Wilshere grew up in Hitchin and started his youth career with Luton Town, and the former Arsenal midfielder was present for the Canaries’ landmark FA Cup First Round defeat to Solihull Moors back in 2018.

Wilshere’s side have been back in training this week at London Colney whilst Hitchin gear up for their opening pre-season game against a Luton Town XI.

With Hitchin less than half an hour on the train from North London, Arsenal fans will enjoy the opportunity of visiting the picturesque Top Field on Saturday July 22 and watching some of the Gunners’ future stars.

Former Arsenal striker John Hartson will be at Top Field as part of @Webby_Dan’s testimonial, after @HitchinTownFC play @ArsenalAcademy ? https://t.co/tSSQTh0hP0

— Freddie Cardy (@CardyFreddie) July 7, 2023