Last night, Arsenal easily defeated Preston North End 3-0 in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.

Mikel Arteta, the manager of the Gunners, made the decision to make a handful of bench players the starting lineup.

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At Deepdale, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri excelled. From the edge of the box, he scored a fantastic goal.

On a different day, the child might have scored a hat-trick. He wasted a huge opportunity and struck the woodwork as well.

Another offensive player whose performance caught our eye was Raheem Sterling.

Last night, the Englishman had a respectably strong first half after starting from the right wing.

But once Gabriel Martinelli was substituted around the hour mark, he improved his play.

After moving to the left flank, Sterling was outstanding. Unfortunately, he was unable to locate the net in the end.

Goalie Freddie Woodman made a double save in the 63rd minute to deny the 29-year-old.

Brad Potts produced a fantastic goalline clearance just as the winger appeared to be about to score in the closing seconds.

Despite his disgruntled demeanor following the final whistle, Sterling had a lot of promise last night.

It’s excellent for the Gunners that the Chelsea loanee is beginning to find his form under Arteta.

Sterling won seven duels yesterday and completed six dribbles in addition to three shots on goal.

He might not do well enough to start against Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday.

He has, however, undoubtedly communicated to the manager that he is a viable option off the bench.

It is unclear if Sterling, who is obviously at ease playing from the left wing, will take Martinelli’s position in the second half at St. James’ Park.