Mikel Arteta praised Aaron Ramsdale's response to his howler against Brentford and revealed that Arsenal "wanted to win for him".
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Arsenal beat Brentford 2-1Ramsdale makes error in winArteta praises deputising keeperGetty/GOALWHAT HAPPENED?
The goalkeeper was handed a rare start for the Gunners, as number one David Raya was ineligible to face his parent club on Saturday, but things were not going well when Yoane Wissa charged down his clearance and equalised after Declan Rice's opener. However, the 25-year-old made a number of good saves after that and the north London side went onto claim all three points thanks to Kai Havertz's header. After the match, manager Arteta lauded Ramsdale's performance and character after bouncing back from that mistake.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT MIKEL ARTETA SAID
The Spaniard told reporters after the game: "Really happy especially because he [Ramsdale] did exactly what he is, a person with huge personality and courage, very determined. Errors are part of football. It's how you react to it, especially for the keepers which is probably the most difficult position. He did so in an amazing way. I'm not surprised because the whole team and the whole stadium was behind him. He has earned respect and admiration. We really wanted to win for him."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Ramsdale made only his sixth Premier League start of the season and first since the reverse fixture against the Bees in November. Raya, who joined on an initial season-long loan from Thomas Frank's side last summer, quickly became the club's first-choice keeper and due to his lack of minutes, the England international has been linked with a transfer exit. While that may happen this summer, the former Sheffield United star could still have a part to play in Arsenal's bid to win the Premier League title this season – with the Gunners currently top of the table.
WHAT NEXT?
Arsenal, who could be leapfrogged at the summit if either Manchester City or Liverpool win their heavyweight clash at Anfield on Sunday afternoon, are next in action on Tuesday at home to FC Porto in the second leg of their last 16 Champions League tie.