Arsenal explain Aaron Ramsey absence vs Chelsea

Arsenal have revealed that Aaron Ramsey was withdrawn from the friendly game against Chelsea after he picked up a minor calf problem in the lead-up to the fixture.

The Wales international was initially named in the Gunners squad for the International Champions Cup game but a minor calf problem saw him replaced by Emile Smith Rowe in the starting lineup.

"Aaron did not start tonight's match due to a minor calf problem - he was replaced in the line up by Emile Smith Rowe as a precaution," read a tweet on the Gunners' official account.

Ramsey has been with the Gunners since the summer of 2008 but his future has come under question of late with his contract expiring in less than 12 months' time.

As a result, Chelsea have been credited with an interest in his services, though the Gunners remain reluctant to offload him to a direct league competitor before the transfer deadline.

Arsenal ended their International Champions Cup campaign with a penalty shoot-out triumph over the Blues after the scores were tied at 1-1 at normal time. Their final pre-season fixture is scheduled versus Lazio this weekend.