GOLDEN GLOVES NERVES OF STEEL!
Arteta explains why Ramsdale was top of his wish list
BY DARREN LEWIS
MIKEL ARTETA has revealed Aaron Ramsdale’s nerves of steel are the reason why he bought the England keeper.
Ramsdale was outstanding in last weekend’s win over Leicester with a string of fine saves.
It was the first step towards answering questions over the £24million it cost to sign him from Sheffield United.
Arteta said: “One of the things that I was most impressed with every time I watched a game he played in was his temperament.
“I wanted to watch a lot of clips and moments after he conceded a goal, made a mistake or suffered difficult moments. And that’s one of the big reasons why we made the decision to sign him.”
Ramsdale, 23, is already a fans’ favourite, joining in with chants and interacting with supporters at the King Power last week.
Asked whether the keeper’s personality was a factor, Arteta (below) added: “Yes. His character allowed him to do that. But at the same time we are working and it is absolutely a business.
“At that point there’s no laughs and there is no room for complacency. It is just about winning.”
Ramsdale’s arrival has relegated Germany international Bernd Leno to the bench. But Arteta has insisted the 29-year-old has been professional about his demotion and is determined to push the current No.1 to maintain his form.
He went on: “He’s disappointed and he should be disappointed because he wants to play and he’s used to playing.
“But at the same time, what he needs to do is raise his level. And he’s going to raise Aaron’s level, so everyone is performing really well.
“A big part of that is because Bernd is next to him, trying to help him, trying to support everything in training, and trying to make him a better goalkeeper. “That is exactly what we want.” Arsenal are undefeated in nine games, six of which have been wins. Arteta, who celebrates his 100th game in charge, went on: “It has been an incredible journey. A lot has happened at the club and around the world in the time that I’ve been here. I am proud to be where I am.
“I really enjoy the opportunity and the challenge. “It is about momentum, laying the foundations for results and building up a sense of unity.”
ARSENAL v
WATFORD Arsenal (4-2-3-1):
Referee
Watford score both halves 13/2