Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom says yesterday's hat-trick against a Singapore Select XI was the perfect start to pre-season.
The 19-year-old stole all the headlines after scoring three and going close to a fourth on Wednesday as he helped the Gunners secure a spot in the Asia Trophy final against Everton.
And he says he will fight to secure a regular place in Arsene Wenger's squad this season.
"I'm buzzing for the hat-trick but most importantly I'm buzzing for the win," Akpom told the club's official website.
"It was a good team performance but it was even better to get a hat-trick. I'm just hoping I can carry on my form for the rest of the pre-season and take it into the season.
"You've got to give 100 per cent because you don't get this chance often, so when you get it you have to make the most of it.
"Hopefully the boss has seen that I've been working hard in training, that I've been working hard on the pitch, and hopefully I can get more game time in the season.
"I've been at Arsenal since I was six years old, so that's a few years and I really want to stay here.
"This season could be a big season for me and with a lot of hard work it could be a breakthrough season for me.
"The main thing is to stay here and I think the loans have helped me gain experience. I'm just getting better every time."
