A nine year old cancer survivor's dream came true when he stepped on to the pitch at Emirates Stadium as Arsenal’s mascot on Sunday.

Gunners fan Samuel Van Emden, from Shenley, was a special guest in the Emirates Cup clash against French side Lyon.

Samuel, who attends Radlett Preparatory School, has undergone four years of cancer treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital and Watford General Hospital.

Samuel’s mother Charlie, speaking before the match, said: “My husband has always supported Arsenal and Samuel is a fan too, but we didn’t want to take him to games when he was in treatment, because being in crowds would have been dangerous for him. This is only the second time he will have been at the stadium. He is so excited."

She added after the match that Samuel had had the 'time of his life' and got to meet his favourite player, forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Hertsmere mayor Cllr Alan Plancey invited Samuel to be a mascot thanks to a partnership between Hertsmere Borough Council and the football club.

Cllr Plancey's chosen charity is Camp Simcha - a Jewish charity which supports families with children who have life-threatening or life-changing injuries. Camp Simcha has provided support to Samuel and his family during his treatment.

Neville Goldschneider, chief executive at Camp Simcha, said: "We were here for Samuel and his family when they faced years of gruelling treatment for cancer. Samuel and his sister Ella particularly enjoyed our art classes, outings and our family retreats which brought some much needed fun and family time to them all.

"We’re glad that with the help of our honorary patron Rabbi Plancey and Arsenal Football club, we could bring some more smiles to Samuel."