Gervinho marks Arsenal debut with double

Ivory Coast international Gervinho marked his Arsenal debut with both goals in a 2-1 win over Bundesliga side Cologne in a pre-season friendly on Saturday.

Gervinho, signed in the summer from French champions Lille, played just 29 minutes before he was substituted following a collision with Cologne goalkeeper Michael Rensing.

His first goal came after a fine pass from Jack Wilshere before a Theo Walcott cross set-up the second.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger - under pressure for failing to make big signings since the end of last season - was delighted that his one major purchase so far made such an immediate impact.

“Gervinho had a good start and that is always important for his confidence,” Wenger said.

“He has shown his qualities. He has quick movement behind the defence, the timing of his movement is great and he is easy to find.

“We have seen what he can bring to the team and he contributes to the high pace we have in the team.

“We played at a good pace in the first half and looked dangerous. We took many risks and were exposed to counter-attacks but, overall, I am happy.”

Wenger insisted Gervinho’s knee injury was only a minor knock, while also playing down Samir Nasri’s injury after the unsettled France midfielder - a transfer target for Manchester City - was caught on his ankle in the second half.

“Samir got a kick to his ankle, Gervinho got a kick on his knee but both have minor damage,” Wenger said.

There was less positive news about teenager Conor Henderson’s knee injury, which forced the promising midfielder to be stretchered off in the closing moments, and Wenger fears the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international could have a serious problem.

“The only sad thing today is the injury to Conor Henderson, it looks quite bad but let us hope that we have good news tomorrow morning,” Wenger added.

“He twisted his knee, I don’t know how big the damage is but the first signs don’t look too encouraging.”