Arsenal legend Martin Keown has praised Aaron Ramsdale for his Man of the Match performance against Burnley.
When media stories regarding Arsenal’s imminent move for Aaron Ramsdale started doing the rounds, the Gunners’ fanbase got divided. Many believed the former Sheffield United stopper could be a poor signing, especially given the £24 million transfer fee the club paid.
Mikel Arteta and Edu received widespread criticism from pundits and fans alike, while Ramsdale himself was the subject of online abuse. Moreover, the last two Premier League sides he played for were relegated, and this factor played a major role in the narrative to oppose the signing altogether.
However, Arteta ensured Ramsdale joined his team and he is already proving a bargain signing. Initial reports suggested the club recruited the keeper to play Bernd Leno’s deputy, but Ramsdale has taken no time to oust the German from the starting role.
Ramsdale is yet to concede a goal in his three starts, including one against West Brom in the EFL Cup. However, he has kept clean sheets in consecutive Premier League games against Norwich and now against Burnley, which coincided with Arsenal’s upturn in form.
? Your MOTM from last night… @AaronRamsdale98 ?
#️⃣ #BURARS pic.twitter.com/fc0U6bq8ij
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 19, 2021
While the Norwich performance was still average, he shone against Burnley, making a tremendous contribution. The Clarets constantly threatened through aerial balls, but Ramsdale was in total control of his box, showing his dominance and collecting the Man of the Match award.
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown, who initially criticised the signing, was full of praise for the 23-year-old keeper. The Gunners’ great hailed the signing and his impact on the team, pointing to Ramsdale’s terrific showing against Burnley.
Keown said, “Ramsdale, really strong, 23 years of age, I questioned the purchase,” Keown said, “but I’ve been really happy with what he’s done. 35 crosses were coming into that box today.”
While Ramsdale has made a genuine impact and instantly become a fan favourite, Arteta could afford him some rest during the midweek EFL Cup clash. Bernd Leno could be back in the lineup against AFC Wimbledon, although Ramsdale could be back in the side for the North London Derby on Sunday.
