Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hinted that Ryo Miyaichi could figure in his first-team plans next season.
The 20-year-old, who joined the Gunners in 2011, has had loan spells with Feyenoord, Bolton Wanderers and Wigan Athletic.
However, the Japan international travelled with the Arsenal squad on their pre-season tour of Asia this summer and scored in their 3-1 win over Nagoya Grampus on Monday.
"Ryo was not completely fit to play but it was a special occasion that I did not want him to miss. He just needs to come back to full fitness and then the rest will come along," Wenger told the club's official website.
"I like his pace, his mobility and his movement off the ball. I like players who can move when others have the ball. There is also his attitude, commitment and desire. That is why I decided to keep him."
Oliver Giroud and Theo Walcott also found the back of the net for the Gunners on Monday.
Matt Law
