This week in…1989 Arsenal beat Michel Platini's France side 2-0 at Highbury in a friendly. Substitute Martin Hayes, who had only been on the pitch for two minutes, pounced on Paul Merson s sliced shot to give Arsenal the lead and another sub, Perry Groves
This week in...1989
Arsenal beat Michel Platini's France side 2-0 at Highbury in a friendly.
Substitute Martin Hayes, who had only been on the pitch for two minutes, pounced on Paul Merson's sliced shot to give Arsenal the lead and another sub, Perry Groves, set up the second when he crossed for Alan Smith to deftly head past France goalkeeper Joel Bats.
A charitable George Graham said: "France are still bedding down, whereas my players have been operating as a team for maybe two years now."
Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein added: "This was a platform for a speedy return to continental football and a chance to judge how our side has matured against European opposition.''
Platini was impressed with the English: "David Rocastle and Brian Marwood are exceptionally good, technical players.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here