Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on new signings Aaron Ramsdale and Takehiro Tomiyasu after the win over Norwich City.
Mikel Arteta has offered his thoughts on two of his new signings Aaron Ramsdale and Takehiro Tomiyasu, describing in length over their debut performances for their respective new clubs.
The Arsenal manager was evidently relieved after his team secured the first victory of the campaign by beating Norwich City 1-0 on Saturday. It was a vital win that will give them confidence heading into the campaign, especially after a run of three consecutive losses in the Premier League.
One of the key changes Arsenal made for their game against Norwich was the number of new players who were given the nod in the starting eleven. Among them, Takehiro Tomiyasu, who joined the Gunners on deadline day, was one of the standout performers, as he thrived in his defensive role.
Speaking to the media after the game, as reported by Arseblog News, Arteta has hailed the Japanese international, stating: “Really positive. Just the first impression when you met him, it was just joy and happiness and good energy.”
“The moment he steps on the pitch he was really focused, determined, he understands the role really good. He was cramping. Obviously, he only trained a day and a half with us, he had to travel, and emotionally it was his first game and we had to take him off,” he added.
Takehiro wasn’t the only new signing who impressed against Norwich City as goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale also showcased his quality in between the sticks.
The former Sheffield United goalkeeper, who joined the club late in the window, wasn’t tested much but he showed impressive composure and was often reliable. Arteta was quick to acknowledge that, even calling his performance “terrific”.
“It is not only what he did on the technical side, it is what he transmits, his energy, his chemistry with the backline, how he reacts, his body language. I think it was top,” said the Spaniard, who later went on to explain his decision to selecting Ramsdale over Bernd Leno.
“I had to make decisions and I felt Aaron was the right one to do so and like in any other position, and that is what we decided today. I want to see how they perform. Now we need performances and we need to win football matches, so whoever gives better performances and whoever transmits more confidence and is more reliable will play,” he added.
The impressive performances from Tomiyasu and Ramsdale is certainly a positive sign for Arsenal. But the North London giants have a long way to go and must build a winning momentum first, as they take on Burnley next weekend.
